Parents take numerous measures to maintain a healthy and positive relationship with their children. Unfortunately for victims of parental alienation, a parent’s relationship with their child often suffers damage. And if no action is taken, it can permanently break the parent-child relationship. Parental alienation also subjects the child to emotional abuse that can negatively affect their behavior as they grow older.
Once a parent suspects parental alienation, it is crucial to stop it as soon as possible. The most important step is to gather the necessary evidence to support the case.
Make use of digital footprints
Sometimes, the manipulation happens digitally – when the alienating parent communicates with the child through texts, calls, emails and other social media sites. The victimized parent can take screenshots of messages and save copies of voicemails that show remarks that put them in a bad light.
Witnesses can help you
People around the child can help establish a strong case proving parental alienation. This includes neutral adults like the child’s adviser and teachers. They may observe concerning behavior from the alienating parent, such as bad-mouthing the targeted parent. They may also notice the difference in the child’s behavior when they are around the alienator versus the other parent. If they genuinely worry and look after the child’s well-being, they should be able to help you build a case.
Records of the parent-child bonding
There are times when accusations of neglect are thrown against the victimized parent. Journals can help in this situation. Documentation showing each day and time the parent spends with their child and even visitation requests to the other parent can debunk neglect accusations. Photos, food receipts, movie tickets, parent-teacher conference attendance and other similar records can show that the parent is making efforts to stay active in the child’s life.
It is not an easy task to prove something you did not do. Some people easily believe accusations, especially those coming from children. Until there is concrete proof that the accusations are false, others may start looking at you negatively. More than that, your child will continue to suffer emotional abuse. This is why gathering evidence is a crucial step in fighting parental alienation.