What is Parental Alienation in the Context of Divorce?

 Posted on July 24, 2024 in Family Law

One of the most concerning issues that can arise during divorce proceedings involving children is parental alienation. This term refers to the psychological manipulation of a child by one parent to unfairly and unjustifiably reject and resist the other parent. It a situation soaked with emotional and legal complexities, and it can have long-lasting impacts on the parent child-relationship. If you believe your spouse is trying to turn your children against you unfairly, discuss these concerns with your Illinois divorce attorney.

What Are Common Signs of Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation often happens through a variety of behaviors aimed at undermining the child’s relationship with the other parent. Key signs include:

• Unwarranted fear or dislike – The child exhibits fear, resentment, or rejection of the alienated parent.

• Negative talk – The alienating parent bad mouths the other parent while the children are present.

• Encouraging rejection – Subtle suggestions that the child should not spend time with or love the other parent.

Understanding the Immense Emotional and Psychological Impact on the Child

The effects of parental alienation can be deeply damaging for children. It can lead to:

• Emotional distress – Confusion, anger, and sadness as they are torn between two important figures in their lives.

• Long-term relationship strain – Difficulty in forming healthy relationships due to trust issues or distorted perceptions of normal familial relationships.

• Mental health issues – Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem stemming from the conflict and manipulation they experience.

Legal Implications of Parental Alienation

Courts take allegations of parental alienation very seriously due to its negative impact on the child’s well-being. Legal interventions can include:

• Custody modifications – If a court finds evidence of parental alienation, it may modify custody arrangements to better protect the child’s relationship with both parents.

• Counseling mandates – Courts might order family therapy or counseling to address and mitigate the effects of alienation.

• Sanctions – In severe cases, the court may impose legal sanctions against the alienating parent for not acting in the child’s best interests.

How to Adress Parental Alienation

If you suspect parental alienation, immediate steps include:

• Documentation – Keep detailed records of incidents and behaviors that suggest alienation.

• Seek professional help –It may be worth seeking the assistance of a mental health professional with experience in family dynamics.

• Legal advice – Work with a family lawyer to understand your rights and the appropriate legal actions to take.

Contact Our Will County, IL Divorce Attorney

If you suspect or find that your soon-to-be ex-spouse is trying to alienate your children from you, our Joliet, IL divorce lawyers with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C.can help. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation.