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3 signs your children may be victims of parental alienation

On Behalf of | Sep 7, 2021 | Blog, Family Law

Parental alienation occurs when parents engineer the estrangement of their kids from the other parent through manipulation. This process of turning individuals against the other parent has the potential to result in long-term negative psychological consequences and may even constitute emotional abuse.

If you recently reunited with your children after an extended period of not seeing them due to your co-parent keeping them away from you and notice unexpected differences in their behavior, your offspring may be victims of parental alienation.

1. Unfaltering support for the other parent

Your children may take your ex’s side in all arguments regardless of any proof or reason. They may irrationally blame you for everything or accuse you of perpetrating actions you did not. They may also throw unceasing and random criticism your way. Constantly placing you in the role of villain and the other parent in the role of the wronged party is a clear sign of parental alienation.

2. Unreasonable animosity towards you

If your offspring show hostility, resentment and bitterness towards you they previously did not, it may be an indicator your co-parent is alienating them. It is not uncommon for children undergoing parental alienation to develop blind rage, disdain and disgust for a parent due to the other parent telling them lies or twisting their minds.

3. Unexplainable refusal to explain their actions

Children subjected to parental alienation often refuse to do so because they are unable to actually rationalize their emotions and behavior. They may also know deep down they are wrong but are unable to push past the effect of the manipulation.

Parental alienation is often grounds for custody arrangement adjustments. If your children display these symptoms, investigate to see if they are victims of it. Remain patient and avoid retaliating by badmouthing the other parent.

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