Going through a divorce can be incredibly difficult, especially when your ex-spouse is doing seemingly everything in their power to make this process as difficult as possible. However, you’ll find that, in some instances, your ex may go so far as undermining the relationship between you and your child. This act, known as parental alienation, can be devastating. If you believe your ex-spouse is intentionally alienating your child from you, this blog explores what you should know about this issue, including the common signs and the importance of working with Morris County family divorce lawyers to help you navigatew these overwhelming and upsetting matters.

What Is Parental Alienation and What Are Common Signs?

Parental alienation is a tactic in which one parent will intentionally manipulate their child into rejecting a relationship with their other parent, the target parent. They may lie to the child and tell them that the target parent does not love them, does not want to contact them, or blames them for the divorce, when, in reality, none of this is true. In some instances, the manipulation can go so far as a parent convincing their child to report the target parent for physical or sexual abuse.

Common signs that your child is a victim of parental alienation include:

  • Your child does not want to have a relationship with you
  • Your child exhibits signs of fear or hesitation when around you
  • Your child is hostile or disrespectful to you
  • There is no sign of ambivalence towards the parent
  • Parroting, or repeating, phrases and words said by the other parent

This is a hotly contested topic, as there is a considerable amount of debate regarding whether or not this is a form of child abuse. While many institutions do believe this to be a form of abuse, it is not yet considered a criminal act.

What Should I Do if I’m a Victim of Alienation?

If you are the victim of parental alienation in New Jersey, it can be incredibly hurtful and upsetting. However, the most important thing you can do is refrain from blaming your child or taking your anger out on them. Your child is a victim too, and getting angry and upset with them for their behavior that is influenced by a person they trust may only further worsen the situation and create an even larger gap in your relationship.

Instead, it’s important to remain calm and supportive of your child. Showing them you are still there for them, even though they are rejecting a relationship with you, can help indicate that you still love them.

If you believe you are a victim of parental alienation, it is imperative to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Leslie Law Firm, our team understands how difficult these matters can be to navigate, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you and your family fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you during these difficult times.