Parental alienation occurs when one parent, through mental and emotional manipulation, tries to damage the relationship between their children and the other parent. It can have long-lasting effects on the relationship between a parent and children, as well as on the latter’s overall well-being.
When faced with parental alienation, it is important to handle the situation carefully and avoid taking certain actions.
Retaliating
A common parental alienation tactic is lying about and trash-talking the targeted parent. Doing the same and talking badly about the alienating parent can be an enticing idea, but giving in only damages the targeted parent’s image and hurts the children. Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the children can exacerbate feelings of alienation and create further conflict. It is important to refrain from badmouthing the other parent and instead focus on fostering a positive relationship between them and both parents.
Reacting emotionally
It is natural to feel hurt and upset when experiencing parental alienation, but reacting emotionally can escalate the situation. It is important to remain calm and composed when dealing with the other parent and focus on finding constructive solutions.
Disregarding court orders
It may be instinct to try and keep children out of the damaging environment created by parental alienation, but giving into that instinct can cause legal troubles and resentment from children. Parents need to adhere to court orders and seek counsel before acting.
Giving up
Alienated children may act cold, rude, resentful, disrespectful and hostile towards the alienated parent. They may blame him or her for everything without listening to reason and act out. They may even express feelings of hatred and disgust. Parents need to remember that their children behave this way as a result of manipulation. Giving up may be easy, but it will only confirm the negative thoughts in their children’s minds and damage them further.
Parental alienation can have a serious impact on children and cause them to behave poorly towards the target of the alienation. By remaining patient and reaffirming their love, parents can help their children through the alienation. They can also ask the court to investigate and potentially seek legal action.