Photo of Kenneth L. Gibson Jr.
Photo of Kenneth L. Gibson Jr.
Photo of Kenneth L. Gibson Jr.

3 common signs of parental alienation

On Behalf of | Oct 5, 2021 | Family Law | 0 comments

The divorce process can be trying even at the best of times. However, when children are at the heart of the process, tensions may be heightened further.

Unfortunately, children might occasionally be weaponized by one spouse who feels hostility towards the other parent. This process is commonly referred to as parental alienation. Parental alienation is a serious issue that can significantly impact your parent-child relationship. As a result, it is important to know some of the common signs.

Your child may suddenly become hostile toward you

One common symptom of parental alienation is that your child becomes overly critical of you. Frequently, this process can appear to happen overnight and for no logical reason. The types of hostility on display can vary but may often present themselves in more trivial manners, such as an unnecessary criticism of your appearance or food preparation.

Your child may take on the voice of the alienating parent

Often, your child may use critical phrases that are out of character and atypical for a younger person. If a child is using adult language that they do not fully understand, this could be a sign of parental alienation. Occasionally, the child might even tell you things that could have only originated from the other parent.

Unwavering support for the alienating parent

Sometimes, your child may be completely unwilling to listen to reason in disputed matters. They might completely negate your side of the story and show unambivalent support towards the other parent. Viewing you in a wholly negative light and the alienating parent in a completely positive light may be a sign of parental alienation.

Understanding parental alienation could be in your best interests. As a parent in Kentucky, it is important to remember that you have legal rights and protections.

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