What You Need To Know About Parental Alienation

Divorce is a difficult time for families, especially children. Children often feel confused, upset and scared. During and after divorce, what the children need most from their parents is love and reassurance. Unfortunately, sometimes animosity between separating parents ends up harming the children instead. One example of this is called “parental alienation.”

The Koblin Family Law Center in Pleasanton is a firm that helps parents look out for the best interest of their children and work together to foster a loving, nurturing environment. Our attorneys understand parental alienation and related problems that sometimes occur in families. Let us help. Call 925-298-2961 today.

What Is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation is a type of behavior in which one parent convinces their child that the other parent does not love them. The parent may also tell their child stories or lies about the other parent that could cause the child to become fearful of or resentful toward the other parent. Essentially, one parent is “alienating” or emotionally separating the child from the other parent.

Here are potential examples of behavior that could cause parental alienation:

• Telling your child that the other parent beats or abuses you
• Bitterly blaming your former spouse for the divorce in front of the children
• Ignoring phone calls, gifts and letters from the other parent to your child
• Telling your child that their mother or father doesn’t love them

What Are The Signs?

If the other parent engages in parental alienation, you may notice certain signs and behaviors in your child. He or she may:

• Know inappropriately intimate details of the marriage and the circumstances of the divorce
• Have a negative attitude and seem rebellious or defiant
• Not want to visit or stay with you during court-appointed times
• Be quiet, reserved and unwilling to talk
• Be jumpy, anxious or nervous
• Seem to feel guilty for having a good time with you

How To Avoid Causing Parental Alienation

Here are a few ways you can avoid damaging your child’s relationship with the other parent:

1. Do not discuss details of your marriage or divorce with your child.
2. Do not say anything negative about the other parent in front of your child.
3. Do not ask your child if he or she wants to visit the other parent. Simply stick to the court-appointed schedule.
4. Provide the other parent with important information such as whether your child is sick or has a school event.
5. Allow your child to talk on the phone, receive gifts and stay in touch with the other parent.
6. Do not schedule events or trips during the other parent’s visitation time.

If You Suspect Parental Alienation, Call Us Today

Parental alienation is a serious issue and may damage a child’s psychological well-being. If you suspect the other parent of parental alienation, contact a lawyer at The Koblin Family Law Center in California. Set up a consultation by calling 925-298-2961 today.