A child might not have a positive relationship with one parent, and the affected parent may blame the other parent. However, a case review might reveal that the child withdraws from the parent due to the adult’s behavior. A parent who remains blind to their unloving or abusive behavior may claim that the other adult is causing parental alienation. A New Hampshire family court judge might not agree with this assessment.
Parental alienation vs. narcissistic behavior
A narcissistic parent might become too self-absorbed to understand their flaws. Someone who tries to control a child or consistently criticizes the young person may discover that the child withdraws from them. The bond between parent and child could become so flawed that a connection no longer exists, so the child might not want to interact with the parent.
Unfortunately, the narcissistic adult may accuse the other parent of alienating the child from them. During divorce proceedings, claims of parental alienation could make the legal proceedings high-conflict events.
Discussing parental alienation in court
Some parents try to use the child against their former partner. They may attempt to force the child to pick sides or otherwise behave manipulatively. The court would likely take a dim view of such behaviors.
In other situations, a child may witness physical and mental domestic abuse. Fearful of the abuser, the child might withdraw. When the abuser lacks self-awareness or a willingness to accept responsibility, the abuser could direct blame elsewhere.
A child custody hearing allows both parents to provide evidence and testimony. The court might determine whether claims of parental alienation have validity, and the judge may review allegations of domestic abuse. Decisions about visitation, child custody and protection orders would likely follow.
