Understanding Parental Alienation in a New Jersey Divorce

A New Jersey divorce is never easy, especially when children are involved. It can be a time of high emotions, disagreements, and conflicts between parents. Unfortunately, some parents may use their children as a way to hurt or control the other party. This is known as parental alienation. This type of alienation truly can have devastating consequences for a child as well as the alienated parent.

Parental alienation is a form of emotional abuse that occurs when one parent attempts to undermine the relationship between the other parent and their child. It can be subtle or overt, but it always involves tactics designed to separate the child from the other parent. This can cause significant emotional harm to the child and can damage the relationship between the child and the alienated parent. If you are going through a divorce, it is important to recognize the signs of alienation and take steps to prevent it from occurring.

One parent speaks badly about the other parent in front of the child, often making false accusations or criticisms. This is a common tactic used to turn the child against the other parent.

One parent may prevent the other parent from speaking to or seeing the child. This can include not allowing phone calls, texts, or emails to be sent or received, or not allowing the other parent to attend school events or doctor appointments. This tactic is designed to isolate the child from the other parent.

One parent may try to limit the amount of time the child spends with the other parent. This can include cancelling visits or not allowing the child to stay overnight with the other parent. This is another tactic designed to separate the child from the other parent.

One parent may try to turn the child against the other parent, often by making false claims or accusations. This can include telling the child that the other parent does not love them, or that the other parent is dangerous or abusive. This tactic is designed to make the child fear or distrust the other parent.

One parent may try to make the child feel guilty for spending time with the other parent. This can include telling the child that they are betraying the other parent by spending time with them, or that they will be punished if they continue to see the other parent. This tactic is designed to make the child choose between the parents.

One parent may undermine the authority of the other parent in front of the child. This can include not following through with discipline or rules set by the other parent, or telling the child that the other parent’s rules are unfair. This tactic is designed to make the child see the other parent as weak or ineffective.

One parent may fail to provide emotional support to the child, leaving them feeling isolated and vulnerable. This can include not acknowledging the child’s feelings or needs, or not providing comfort or reassurance when the child is upset. This tactic is designed to make the child feel like they are not important to the other parent.

One parent may use the child as a bargaining chip to gain financial advantage. This can include refusing to pay child support unless the other parent agrees to certain conditions or using the child as leverage in property or asset negotiations. This tactic is designed to make the other parent feel powerless and to gain financial control.

One parent may make false accusations against the other parent, often in an attempt to gain custody of the child. This can include accusing the other parent of abuse or neglect, or making false claims about their ability to care for the child. This tactic is designed to damage the other parent’s reputation and to gain control over the child.

Parental alienation is a serious issue that can have long-lasting effects on the child and the family. By recognizing the signs and taking steps to prevent it, you can protect your child’s emotional health and ensure that they have a positive relationship with both parents. Remember, divorce is a difficult time for everyone involved, but it is possible to navigate it in a way that prioritizes the well-being of your children. If you have any questions concerning parental alienation, call (201) 845-7400 for a free consultation.