Parental alienation is a common topic that is trending in the world of divorce and separation. Parents are claiming that their children are being brainwashed or turned against them. They believe that their former partner is telling their children terrible things about them, coming up with excuses of why they cannot spend time together and more.
One or two occurrences cannot turn a child from their parent. However, months after not hearing from you or only hearing bad things about you can change anyone’s opinion, even your child. While you are still loved, the child starts to associate their other parent as the more reliable and stable one. When this happens, it can become even more frustrating and difficult to spend time with your child, which is when you may want to consider getting legal assistance.
Common Myths Regarding Parental Alienation
While growing more common, parental alienation is not yet well understood. The key to understanding Parental Alienation is that it cannot be accomplished quickly, meaning there are things you can do. First, know the myths and what your options are.
- It’s never an accident: If a parent is attempting parental alienation, it is never done accidentally. Their goal is to turn the child against the other parent which includes refusing to allow contact with the other parent.
- Only one parent is ever at fault: Both parents can be at fault in situations like this, but not always. Usually, one parent takes advantage of the fact that the other must work or has other responsibilities. This makes it easier to monopolize time and change opinions.
- There’s nothing you can do: This is a common myth and is false. You can contact your attorney and learn what your legal options are. There are also counseling options, such as therapeutic intervention, which can assist in mending parent/child relationships.
- It only happens with younger children: People believe that younger children can be easier to “brainwash” because of their age. This is not necessarily true and oftentimes it’s the older children who are easier to “turn” mainly if they have experienced hardship or difficulties with the other parent.
- It cannot be proven: Parental alienation is not only provable, but it can also be stopped.
- It never gets better: While the process of learning about the action, your options and reconnecting with your child are challenging, there are plenty of options and things you can do to improve your relationship with your child or children.
- Working together is still an option: If the other parent is trying to deliberately push your child away from you, there is no room to work together and work things out. They will continue to use their power to their advantage.
A skilled attorney can assist in combating the effects of parental alienation and help repair your relationship with your child or children.