Divorced or separated parents with children often have to deal with two related issues:
Parental alienation and Parental alienation syndrome. These issues mean When one parent tries to turn the child against the other parent and when a child unreasonably rejects one parent because of negative influences from the other parent.
In such cases, you might need help from a good lawyer in your area, which you can find by simply looking on the web and searching for a divorce attorney near me. These lawyers help to look out for parents speaking badly about the other parent to the child.
What does parental alienation mean?
Parental alienation is when a child stops liking or loving a parent for no good reason. It can be a little less problematic or sometimes a lot.
A little parental alienation means the child complains about the parent but still acts okay when with them. On the other hand, a lot of parental alienation means the child refuses to see that parent, hates them, and thinks they are a bad person, even if the parent used to be loved.
The child turns against the parent without any fair explanation or wrongdoing by the parent. The alienation happens because of influences from the other parent.
What should be done if you’re accused of parental alienation?
Below are the ways to present your case in court if you are wrongfully accused of parental alienation by your children.
If one parent is turning a child against the other parent, it’s called parental alienation. This can be hard to prove, but here are some tips:
1. Keep a Journal
Write down what the child says and how they act, especially around visits with each parent. Note any patterns, like the child only wanting to live with one parent after just seeing them. Details help show alienation is happening.
2. Try Therapy
Therapy can help the child work through negative feelings about a parent. The therapist’s notes may also help prove alienation later. As the targeted parent, your own Therapy can teach coping strategies.
3. Talk to the Other Parent
See if discussing the issue helps, but don’t accuse – just describe the child’s behaviors. However, this could backfire and make alienation worse.
4. Going to Court
If alienation is happening before any court orders, raise it at the initial court hearing. If orders already exist, file a motion to modify the parenting plan. The court may appoint an expert evaluator.
5. Expert Evaluators
The expert will investigate by meeting everyone, reviewing evidence like your journal, and making recommendations to the court based on the child’s best interests. Clearly explain your concerns to the expert from the start.
