How can parental alienation cause harm after a divorce?

On Behalf of | Apr 11, 2022 | Family Law

As you take care of your children after you go through a divorce, you may notice some signs of odd behavior or increased anger as time goes on.

Parental alienation is a serious issue that can harm the connection between you and your children due to an interfering ex-spouse. Knowing the signs of this problem is one way to prevent or notice it.

Unnecessary discussions

According to Psychology Today, one way an alienating parent may attempt to control your children is to tell them lies or personal details about you. This can leave them feeling nervous around you or even angry at you.

Your ex-spouse may also complain about or talk cruelly about you in front of your children. These kinds of interactions will make children hesitant about seeing you or feeling excited to talk to you. Eventually, this may wear away at your bond with them if it persists.

Shortened visiting times

When an ex-spouse picks up or drops off your children at a different time than the one you agreed upon in your parenting plan, this can be a sign of intentional alienation. Attempting to prevent your children from spending time with you or forgetting to tell you about school events can leave you feeling lost and confused.

This can also make children assume you do not want to be a part of their lives. The emotional damage can even extend to your children ignoring or rejecting your side of the family and refusing to visit or talk to them. Noticing how alienation harms you and your children can help you if you need to put a stop to it.