After a divorce, you and your ex-spouse will receive a custody order from the court. This order lays out your rights and obligations when it comes to the custody of your child. Both you and your spouse must follow these rules to ensure a positive child-rearing experience.
Unfortunately, not all former spouses are on the same page when it comes to parenting. According to WebMD, some parents try to alienate their child against the other parent out of spite or resentment for the divorce. Here are a few signs of parental alienation, which require timely intervention by the alienated parent.
Unwarranted criticism of you
While it is normal for kids to become mad at their parents from time to time, it takes on a darker tone when parental alienation occurs. Your child will offer harsh criticism that has no basis in reality. They may express shame and remorse for experiencing good times with you or enjoying your visits. This indicates the influence of your ex-spouse on your child.
Lack of guilt
Poor treatment of parents usually results in a feeling of guilt in kids. This guilt can cause them to apologize after an incident, at which point they may express regret for what occurred. These feelings typically do not emerge when parental alienation is a factor. Kids never experience guilt for poor treatment, because they believe they have justification for their actions.
Strong support for the other parent
While you are subject to harsh words and critical opinions, your former spouse will receive nothing but praise and glowing words. Kids experiencing parental alienation express little to no nuance, no matter your actions or the actions of your ex-spouse.
Court orders are legally binding. As a result, you can take the matter back to the court if your ex is preventing you from having visits with your child. The court can then alter orders or hold your former spouse accountable for their actions.
