Divorce takes a toll on all involved, especially the children. Kids may experience additional challenges when one parent purposely or unintentionally encourages them to cut off the relationship with the other parent.
Known as parental alienation, this type of unfounded rejection may profoundly affect families in the immediate, as well as in the future. Therefore, people will find it helpful to understand some things they can do to move forward if this occurs in their families.
Practice patience
According to PsychCentral.com, alienated parents should take care to practice patience when interacting with their children. Allowing their kids space to vent and express their feelings without judgment sometimes aids in breaking down the images the alienating parents have created.
Allow the child time in the driver’s seat
When dealing with the impact of divorce in general, but particularly when parental alienation takes place, children may feel a lack of control. Parents may help them by participating in unstructured play time where they let the child dictate the terms of their interaction. For instance, this includes letting the child decide what to play, how to play and for how long they want to play.
Alter the parenting time dynamics
According to Psychiatric Times, people may seek parental agreement modifications when this type of behavior develops in their families. To this end, they may seek changes, such as to gain sole or primary custody or request supervised visitation for the alienating parent.
If parents believe parental alienation has occurred in their families, they should consider acting. They may find it helpful to discuss their situations with an attorney to learn their options and chart the best course of action for their children and themselves.