When it comes to divorce, making decisions about custody issues can be very challenging. This is especially true when one parent does not act in good faith when it comes to co-parenting.
In this case, you may experience parental alienation, which can have a negative impact on the relationship between you and your child. The first step to overcoming the issue is to understand exactly what parental alienation entails.
What is parental alienation?
After divorce, it is usually best for both parents to have a loving relationship with the child at the center of the custody dispute. With parental alienation, one parent may unduly influence the child against the other by speaking negatively about their former spouse.
For instance, children who experience parental alienation will often hate the other parent without any specific reason. Additionally, they will not experience any guilt or remorse for their actions. While they have nothing but harsh words and criticisms for the alienated parent, the child will have nothing but good things to say about the other parent.
What can you do about it?
The court can help you decide how to handle the issue based on how severity of the alienation. In some instances, they may recommend counseling for the child. They may also ask both parents to take a parenting class. These classes will offer advice on child-rearing, but they can also highlight the dangers of speaking ill about one parent in front of children.
In serious cases, the judge may need to take steps to enforce the parenting plan created by you and your former spouse. Remember, these plans are legally binding, so all parties must follow the terms, or they could risk legal reprisal.