Working Through Parental Alienation Using Collaborative Divorce

Father holding childs hand.When you and your spouse are divorcing, emotions usually run hot and fast for many situations and sometimes parental alienation can occur.

Parental Alienation is defined as a family dynamic in which one parent (often referred to as the favored parent or the alienating parent) has attempted to undermine a child’s relationship with the other parent (often referred to as the targeted parent) through the use of indoctrination, manipulation, and other techniques, the effect of which causes the child to reject the targeted parent.

It is so sad when we see this occur, and often the child gets the blame for feeling this way, but that is far from the truth – the alienating parent is solely responsible for it.

Here are a few signs to look for if you feel you are being alienated (targeted parent) from your child through the other parent (alienated parent):

  • Badmouthing the targeted parent
  • Limiting contact between the child
  • Interfering with communications
  • Withdrawal of love by the alienating parent if the child shows any positive feelings for the targeted parent
  • Telling the child or giving the child the impression that the targeted parent does not love them
  • Forcing the child to choose between the alienating parent and the targeted parent

While there are several other signs to look for, these are the most common traits we see.

When we notice that this is occurring, or the potential of this occurring, we encourage the family to speak with our divorce coaches, mental health professionals and/or child life specialist during their collaborative divorce process.

When you utilize the experts in the Los Angeles Collaborative Family Law Association, you will know that when your divorce is finalized, each party involved, including your children’s wellbeing, will be addressed.

Call us today if you would like to learn more about how our members can help you and your family with your divorce.

Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or medical advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, medical or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.