Texas parents like you often struggle with parenting after a divorce. This is especially true if the divorce was messy, difficult and left you and your co-parent estranged. Sometimes, it is possible to continue co-parenting without much issue.
Other times, a co-parent may get so hung up on how things ended that they do not want you and your child to share a good relationship. This may lead to parental alienation.
What is parental alienation?
Psychology Today looks at how parental alienation can impact relationships. First of all, what is it? Parental alienation is a series of tactics used by a parent to drive a wedge between their child and their co-parent. This can result in parental alienation syndrome. If this happens, a child will suddenly turn against one of their parents seemingly with no rhyme or reason.
Tactics used in parental alienation can differ and vary from situation to situation. Some parents may use subtle manipulation tactics. Others may outright lie. For example, a parent could lie to their child about the reason for your absence if you have to miss a function for work. A parent could even lie about your feelings toward your child, claiming that you do not like them. They may lie about your history, making you seem villainous and like a bad person.
What are signs your child suffers from this?
You should be on the lookout for any sudden refusal from your child to see you. In cases of parental alienation syndrome, they may parrot back reasons that are beyond their comprehension level. When pressed, they likely will not be able to explain exactly why they do not wish to see you. These are all red flags and you may wish to speak to your attorney.
