Divorce often forces each parent to become a better, more well-rounded caregiver for the children. However, some people do not become better parents but instead, become worse ones.
A spouse who was previously kind and supportive to both you and the children could engage in parental alienation, which could harm you and the kids. What are some of the ways that your ex could affect your relationship with the kids?
They overshare
Children often have a lot of questions about divorce, and telling them too much can do more harm than good. That doesn’t mean you need to answer each of their inquiries in depth.
When one parent constantly over-shares about their feelings or the other parent’s misconduct, the results will be long-term damage to the relationship between the other parent and the children in the family.
They cancel your parenting time and blame you
Do you show up to get your kids, only to be told they aren’t feeling well or don’t want to see you? Does your ex constantly come up with excuses about why they have to cancel your visitation or why the kids can’t come to the phone?
Your children may not realize that you have made such an effort to remain a part of their lives. One parent may not just keep the other from spending time with or talking to the children but could also blame that parent for their lack of involvement.
If you notice any of these warning signs of parental alienation, you may need to start documenting the matter so that you can prove it in court. Understanding your rights when you share custody is important if you want to stand up for them.
