New Jersey co-parents often struggle to adjust to life after a divorce. It can throw everyone off to abide by new visitation schedules or custody rules. Unfortunately, some couples disagree and argue more than others over this new lifestyle.
In extreme cases, one co-parent may even try to turn your child against you to avoid following visitation schedules. This is parental alienation and it can do you and your child a lot of harm.
The intent of PAS
Psychology Today looks at parental alienation syndrome (PAS), the result of parental alienation. PAS occurs in children who are victims of parental alienation. This is an act in which one parent tries to drive a wedge between their child and co-parent. The court considers this a form of child psychological abuse due to the manipulative tactics alienating parents tend to use.
How PAS affects children
As with any form of abuse, parental alienation leaves lasting scars. Children who suffer from PAS often struggle with anxiety and depression later in life. They may even experience post traumatic stress disorder. Many struggle to develop relationships and have difficulties trusting others. To alleviate their mental distress, some turn to poor coping mechanisms like drug use and abuse.
Of course, as the alienated parent, you also experience negative effects. It can often feel like the premature death of a child due to separation and loss. They may refuse to keep your company or even see you, which is massively traumatic to any parent.
If you notice signs of PAS, consider speaking to your attorney. It is possible to seek legal action to correct the issue before it worsens.
