Parental alienation is defined as the successful efforts of one parent – typically estranged or divorced – to undermine the reputation, authority and relationship the other parent has with the couple’s children. If mom or dad, whether intentionally or subconsciously, speak so ill of the other parent that the child begins to dislike the other parent and reject the relationship, parental alienation is happening. Bad mojo.
Parental alienation can be devastating to both the child and the alienated parent. In severe cases, the child won’t want to see or talk to the alienated parent as a result. Once the alienation reaches this point, it is difficult to reverse and the damage to the child and to the relationship between the child and the alienated parent can be prolonged or even permanent.
Parental Alienation deprives children of their right to be loved by both parents and to show love for both parents. The effects of this alienation will become apparent as the child’s mental and emotional well-being will be affected.
To determine if parental alienation is happening in your family, look for these symptoms:
Parental alienation is most often present in high conflict marriages, separation or divorce. Most people do not know about Parental Alienation and Hostile Aggressive Parenting until they experience it. We here at Lifeologie know it all to well and have been helping families for years.
There are many reasons and causes for parental alienation and each situation is different. We want to help you learn to co-parent productively to prevent the devastating effects of parental alienation.
There are times, of course, when one parent is not willing to cooperate, but that does not mean you can’t still do your part. Give us a call today and let us educate you and help you and your children through this difficult time.
If you fear your child may be suffering from Parental Alienation Syndrome, keep a watchful eye out for the following characteristic behaviors in your child or ex-partner, such as:
Effective and comprehensive interventions to counsel sufferers of parental alienation should adopt a three-pronged or triangulated approach to bridging the parent-child divide that investigates the motives of all parties involved, including the alienated parent, the alienating child, and the offending parent. The course of treatment for alienated parents normally includes an introspective and honest reflection on your own behavior at the outset of therapy.
When possible, mending the relationship that exists between the alienated parent and the offending parenting is a positive step.
What happens when the combative or offending parent refuses to cooperate? You will need to know your legal recourse, including court-mandated family therapy, parental visitation rights, and court orders or civil laws. In addition, you may need to deprogram your child without bashing the other parent and learn to do the following:
Counseling for parental alienation can be helpful to anyone struggling with this very damaging problem. You do not need to go it alone. Counselors at Lifeologie are here to help you.