Parents who end their relationships with one another typically still want to maintain their connection with their shared children. Parents should follow the parenting schedule and communicate with one another as necessary for the children’s well-being.
Sometimes, one parent may try to use the children as a weapon to harm the other. They may intentionally alienate the other parent from the children, which can cause long-term psychological damage. Adequate proof is critical when asking for a custody modification due to alienation attempts.
What proof is necessary?
To show that one parent intentionally alienated the other from the children, there must be a pattern of inappropriate and disruptive conduct. One canceled parenting session does not constitute parental alienation. However, months of canceled sessions, shortened visits and denied communications can be indicative of a concerted effort to alienate one parent from the children.
Negative talk about a parent is often a component of alienation. If children repeat claims made by the other parent, such as allegations that one parent abandoned the family or doesn’t pay enough in child support, those negative messages can be part of the alienation process as well.
Keeping records of all unapproved, unilateral custody schedule changes can be helpful. Written records of negative claims made by the children or any disparaging comments made by one parent about the other on social media can all help show that there has been an intentional campaign to negatively impact the bond one parent has with the children.
Evidence of misconduct can motivate a judge to change a family’s division of parenting time. They can also order reunification therapy or other counseling services to help address the alienation that has occurred. Working with an attorney when dealing with contentious custody matters can help parents protect their bond with their children accordingly.
