Parental alienation is a troubling issue that affects many families during divorce or child custody disputes. When one parent intentionally damages the relationship between the other parent and their child, it can have long-lasting emotional consequences for both the child and the alienated parent.
In Texas, courts take parental alienation seriously because it disrupts the healthy development of a child. At C.E. Borman, we understand how complex this issue can be and its impact on families. Our team of Bryan, Texas divorce and family law attorneys, led by Channa Borman, are here to support you with compassionate, straightforward legal guidance tailored to your unique situation.
What Is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation occurs when one parent deliberately manipulates a child to reject the other parent. This manipulation may include negative comments, false accusations, or restricting contact between the child and the alienated parent. Over time, the child may adopt the alienating parent’s perspective, leading to estrangement.
Common tactics of parental alienation include the following:
- Bad-mouthing the other parent: Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child.
- Undermining authority: Encouraging the child to disrespect or disobey the other parent.
- Limiting contact: Preventing or discouraging visits, calls, or communication with the other parent.
- Emotional manipulation: Making the child feel guilty for spending time with or showing affection to the other parent.
Working with a skilled family law attorney can help you navigate the legal process of parental alienation, gather necessary evidence, and advocate for solutions that protect your relationship with your child.
Signs of Parental Alienation
Recognizing signs of parental alienation early is critical to addressing the issue. If you notice the following behaviors, parental alienation may be occurring:
- Unexplained anger or hostility from your child that is out of character.
- Reluctance or refusal to visit or communicate with you despite previously having a strong relationship.
- Repeating negative accusations or comments that seem to come from the other parent.
- Unjustified fear or anxiety about spending time with you.
- Complete alignment with the alienating parent’s perspective, with no neutral or positive feelings about you.
If you observe these signs, seek help immediately to mitigate the lasting emotional harm caused by parental alienation.
How Parental Alienation Affects Children
Parental alienation doesn’t just harm the relationship between the alienated parent and the child; it also has profound emotional effects on the child. Children who are subjected to parental alienation may experience:
- Emotional distress: They may feel torn between their loyalty to one parent and their natural love for the other, leading to confusion, guilt, and anxiety.
- Difficulty forming healthy relationships: Alienated children may struggle to trust others or develop healthy relationships in the future due to their experiences with manipulation.
- Lower self-esteem: Constant exposure to negative messaging about a parent can lead children to internalize feelings of worthlessness or doubt.
It’s important to remember that parental alienation harms the child just as much, if not more, than the parent being targeted. Protecting your child from this toxic behavior should be a top priority.
How to Address Parental Alienation
If you believe you are a victim of parental alienation, there are steps you can take to address the issue and protect your relationship with your child:
1. Document the Behavior
Keep a detailed record of any behaviors or actions that suggest parental alienation. This may include texts, emails, or instances where visitation was denied or discouraged. These records can be valuable in court.
2. Communicate Calmly and Clearly
If possible, try to communicate with your co-parent about the issue. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational, as this may escalate the problem. However, if open communication isn’t possible, focus on maintaining a calm and positive relationship with your child.
3. Maintain Consistent Contact
Continue to show up for visits and be present in your child’s life, even if it feels like they’re pulling away. Demonstrating consistency can help counteract the negative influence of the alienating parent.
4. Seek Counseling
Counseling for both you and your child can help repair the relationship and address the emotional damage caused by parental alienation. Family therapy can also provide a neutral space for both parents and children to rebuild trust.
Parental Alienation and Texas Law
Texas courts prioritize the child’s best interests in all custody and visitation cases. Courts take parental alienation seriously and may intervene if it is proven, taking measures such as:
- Modifying custody or visitation arrangements.
- Ordering counseling for the child and/or parents.
- Other legal steps should be taken to protect the child’s well-being and restore relationships.
Texas Family Code § 153.001 emphasizes that courts must encourage frequent and continuing contact between children and parents unless harmful to the child.
An attorney who can effectively present evidence of parental alienation is crucial in protecting your rights and your child’s best interests. At C.E. Borman, we’re prepared to navigate this challenging situation and advocate for you.
How a Bryan, Texas Family Law Attorney Can Help
Parental alienation cases require a skilled family law attorney to gather evidence, present your case effectively, and ensure your child’s well-being. An attorney can help by:
- Identifying and documenting signs of alienation
- Representing your interests in court
- Advocating for counseling or custody modifications to protect your child
At C.E. Borman, we are committed to helping you through this difficult time. Our compassionate and client-centered approach prioritizes your child’s well-being while offering clear and practical legal advice.
Contact C.E. Borman & Associates
If you are facing parental alienation in Texas, take action today. At C.E. Borman, we serve families in Bryan, College Station, and across Texas, providing support to Texas with questions and issues related to family law. Contact us today at 979-200-4725 to schedule an initial consultation.
