Joshi, Attorneys + CounselorsFindLaw IM Template2024-03-06T13:45:29Zhttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1602302/2021/03/cropped-JoshiAttorneys_SITEICON_512x512_MAR21-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483552024-02-29T03:26:18Z2024-02-29T03:26:18ZWhat is parental alienation?
Parental alienation is the manipulation of a child with the intent to distance them from their other parent. There are several ways this manipulation can occur, including cutting you off from contact with your child, feeding your child false information about you or your relationship with the other parent, and talking negatively about you in front of your child.
The signs of parental alienation can be obvious, but they’re not always so easily chalked up to alienation. Here are some signs of parental alienation that you’ll want to be on the lookout for:
Your child unrelentingly criticizes you and your extended family.
Your child makes harsh statements against you that have no basis in fact.
Your child exhibits unwavering support for the other parent.
Your child falsely believes allegations about being abused or neglected.
You’re kept out of the loop as far as what’s going on with your child academically and medically.
You’re denied visitation, even when it’s ordered by the court.
There are several other ways that alienation can present itself. Just be aware of how your child is responding to you. If you sense that something is off, then you’ll want to dig deeper to see if your child’s response is attributable to alienation.
How can you bring alienation to a stop?
Parental alienation can be harmful to your child and your relationship with them. In fact, some experts equate parental alienation with child abuse. But how do you protect your child from this egregious behavior? Here are some tips:
Keep a journal: Writing down every symptom of parental alienation can help you keep track of them all and quickly recall them in detail when you need to. This will illustrate to the court the extent and severity of the problem.
Make requests for contact in writing: If your child’s other parent is blocking you from having contact with your child, then you need to reduce your requests to writing so that you’re making a record of your attempts. This will give you evidence to show your consistency and the other parent’s habitual conduct in denying access to your child.
Don’t fall into alienating behavior: Even when you know that alienation is occurring, you shouldn’t give into the temptation to get back at your spouse. Remember, bad mouthing the other parent in front of your child or telling your child false information about the other parent is alienating behavior that can be harmful to your child.
Seek a custody modification: The best way to protect your child is to modify your existing custody order in a way that shields your child from the other parent. You’ll need to demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances, which you might be able to do if you follow the other tips mentioned above.
Don’t let parental alienation ruin your relationship with your child
Parental alienation is a serious issue that has to be addressed in a timely manner if you want to protect your child and your relationship with them. That’s why if you suspect parental alienation, now is the time to act. If you want to know more about how to navigate a child custody modification request, then please continue to read through our blog and browse the rest of our website.
]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483542024-01-18T21:03:10Z2024-01-22T21:02:20ZMisconception 1. Parental alienation is always intentional
One common fallacy is that parental alienation is always a deliberate act. In truth, it can happen unintentionally due to various factors, including a child's innocent misunderstanding. Not all instances of alienation involve malicious intent.
Misconception 2. It only develops with divorce
While parental alienation has a strong association with divorce and separation, it occurs in a myriad of family dynamics. Alienation may arise amongst intact families or those with longstanding joint custody arrangements.
Misconception 3. It is always evident and obvious
Parental alienation is not exclusively overt or easily recognizable. It often manifests in subtle ways. For example, a dependent might express a sudden and unexplained aversion to one parent. Recognizing subtle signs allows someone to address the matter before it becomes deeply entrenched.
Misconception 4. Children are always brainwashed
While parental alienation may involve someone deliberately influencing a little one's perceptions, not every case hinges on explicit conditioning. Children may independently form beliefs and preferences based on their experiences, observations and emotions.
Misconception 5. A resolution will come quickly
Resolving parental alienation is a complex process that requires time and careful intervention. It is not a matter that can end quickly through simple solutions. Effective outcomes typically involve therapeutic interventions, open communication and commitment from all parties involved.
Mistaken beliefs about parental alienation can hinder correcting the issue. A realistic view may facilitate a smoother handling of the problem.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483532024-01-06T16:23:44Z2024-01-08T16:22:20ZFoster open communication
Share your concerns about gatekeeping and express the importance of a collaborative co-parenting relationship. Encourage a dialogue that focuses on the child's best interests.
Try to establish each parent's roles and responsibilities in the shared custody arrangement. Work together to outline specific parenting time, decision-making responsibilities and expectations for communication. Having a well-defined plan can help reduce maternal gatekeeping tendencies.
Maintain consistency
Consistency is key in shared custody arrangements. Stick to agreed-upon schedules and commitments to provide stability for your child. Consistency fosters a sense of security. It can counteract the disruptive effects of maternal gatekeeping.
Document interactions
Keep detailed records of interactions with the other parent. Be sure to document any instances of maternal gatekeeping. The other parent may deny visitation or try to control your relationship with your child. This documentation can be valuable if legal intervention becomes necessary.
Seek mediation
If communication breaks down and maternal gatekeeping persists, consider requesting mediation. A neutral third party can help parents find common ground and develop strategies to overcome challenges.
Focus on the child's well-being
Prioritize the child's best interests in all discussions and actions. Emphasize the importance of both parents playing active roles in the child's life. Highlighting the child's needs can help discourage gatekeeping behaviors in favor of collaboration.
Remain flexible
Life circumstances often change. Being open to adjustments in schedules or responsibilities contributes to cooperative co-parenting. A flexible approach can also help reduce tensions associated with maternal gatekeeping.
Consult a family counselor
If maternal gatekeeping persists, a family counselor could help you develop a healthy coparenting relationship. A professional can provide guidance on improving communication and resolving conflicts.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 10 million mothers have sole physical custody, compared to just 2 million fathers. Addressing maternal gatekeeping in shared custody requires a proactive and collaborative approach. Understanding the associated behaviors lets you protect your child from their impact.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483522023-12-27T20:24:00Z2023-12-27T20:24:00ZPathogenic parent
The pathogenic parent plays a central role in this distressing scenario. This parent seeks to manipulate the child's perception of the other parent. He or she may use tactics that involve alienating and turning the child against them.
Motivations for such behavior can range from unresolved personal issues to a desire for revenge. The pathogenic parent may consciously or unconsciously use the child as a pawn in their own emotional struggles. They are at the heart of fostering an unhealthy environment for the entire family.
Targeted child
Caught in the crossfire is the targeted child. This innocent soul becomes the unwitting participant in a psychological tug-of-war. The pathogenic parent subjects the child to manipulative tactics. They may make disparaging remarks about the targeted parent, plant false memories or restrict access to the other parent.
This situation puts an immense emotional burden on the child. It may lead to confusion, guilt and long-term psychological distress.
Targeted parent
On the receiving end of the pathogenic parent's efforts is the targeted parent. This individual becomes the subject of the negative campaign. He or she faces unjust accusations and often becomes a scapegoat.
The targeted parent may endure a sense of powerlessness and despair as their relationship with the child deteriorates. The emotional toll can be profound. It will affect their relationship with the child and also their overall well-being.
Understanding these roles is crucial for navigating the complex terrain of pathological parenting. The consequences of such dynamics can be severe for everyone. Awareness of these roles is a first step in addressing the complex challenges that arise in such situations. By fostering understanding and seeking appropriate support, families can work towards breaking the cycle of pathological parenting and creating a healthier, more nurturing environment.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483512023-12-14T08:25:13Z2023-12-14T08:25:13ZWays to build your parental alienation case and cope with your mental challenges
Even though you might feel lost in your struggle to stop parental alienation, there are steps that you can take to advocate for your child and your relationship with them. These steps can also help protect you mental well-being. They include:
Confronting the alienating parent: It can be empowering to call out the other parent for their manipulating behavior, putting them on notice that you know what they’re up to and won’t put up with it. Of course, there’s a right way and a wrong way to call out the other parent, so make sure you’ve got a plan before going into the conversation so that you don’t come across as just berating the other parent.
Develop a gameplan: While you’ll need to think through how to approach the other parent, you also need a comprehensive gameplan for how to address parental alienation. This includes gathering evidence and making strong legal arguments to persuade the judge to rule in your favor when you seek a custody modification.
Take care of yourself: You’re going to experience a significant amount of stress and anxiety while you deal with parental alienation. If you try to suppress it, then it can consume you, which can ultimately negatively impact your ability to address the alienation at hand. So, make sure you’re taking care of your health by embracing hobbies, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding risky behaviors that could place you and your custody arguments in trouble.
Don’t compete with the other parent: To get back at the other parent and to try to even the playing field, you might be tempted to start talking poorly about the other parent around your child and engaging in other tactics to sway your child to your side. But this only threatens to cause more harm to your child. It’s not a competition to see who can win. It’s about protecting your child and finding the custody arrangement thatsupports their best interests.
Learn what you can about tackling parental alienation
Parental alienation can have a significant impact on your and your child’s lives. But you can take control of the situation by practicing self-care and thoroughly preparing your legal case. Given the niche area of the law occupied by parental alienation, you might need specialized help from a mental health professional, expert witnesses, and a skilled legal team.
With that in mind, now is the time to start addressing parental alienation, and time is of the essence. So, if you want to know more about parental alienation and the best ways to stop it, please continue to read our blog.
]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483502023-12-13T02:27:40Z2023-12-13T02:27:40ZUnderstanding parental alienation
Parental alienation manifests in various ways. It occurs when one parent makes derogatory comments about the other or limits contact. This behavior can lead to emotional distress, impacting the child's relationship with both parents.
Legal ramifications
Family courts take parental alienation seriously due to its potential harm to the child's well-being. Judges consider the ability of each parent to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and any behavior that threatens the child's emotional or psychological health may influence custody decisions.
Impact on custody determinations
Alienation can significantly sway the court's decision in favor of the non-alienating parent. Judges may award primary custody to the parent who demonstrates a commitment to fostering a healthy family dynamic. In extreme cases, the alienating parent may face limitations on visitation or custody rights.
Psychological consequences for children
Children caught in the web of parental alienation often suffer emotionally and psychologically. This strain can lead to anxiety, depression and difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life. Courts recognize the potential long-term consequences of parental alienation and seek to protect the child's mental well-being.
Studies show that over 22 million adults have been targets of parental alienation in the United States, to say nothing of the number of children caught in the crossfire. There is little room for doubt that alienation can affect a child's well-being and should be a major factor in custody decisions.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483482023-11-29T16:54:15Z2023-11-29T16:54:15ZRetaliating
Responding emotionally to the alienating behaviors can escalate the conflict. Parents need to avoid lashing out at their children or the other spouse in response. By continuing to show love and support to their children and behaving in a calm, and rational manner, they show their children and the courts that they are not the problem. They also need to avoid speaking ill of the other parent, as that only compounds the issue.
Withdrawing
Withdrawing emotionally and mentally from people attacking them is a common defense mechanism for many individuals. However, parents cannot do so with their children. Alienated children need to know that the targeted parent still cares for and will not give up on them.
Avoiding
While it may seem easier on both the children and the targeted parent to "give them space," it is important to adhere to the custody schedule. Allowing children to miss their time with them, even if the children say that is what they want, only hurts alienated parents more, offering "proof" that they do not really care about their children, even if that is not the truth. Similarly, denying children their lawful time with the alienating parent can cause problems. It gives the alienating parent legal grounds to fight with them.
The National Center for State Courts considers parental alienation to be possible emotional abuse. It is a serious issue with serious consequences for children and parents. While the pain of having their children turn against them can be intense, parents need to remember that the children are pawns hurting from the abuse as well and act accordingly. By remaining open and loving, while documenting evidence of the parental alienation to present to court, they can help their children get to a healing point.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483472023-11-26T21:10:40Z2023-11-26T21:10:40ZStart by educating yourself
In the U.S., only about 60% of children live with married biological parents. Unfortunately, children of divorce have a higher likelihood of behavioral issues. When children experience parental alienation, they are victims of emotional abuse and may exhibit more of these issues. Educate yourself on the impact of parental alienation to try to understand what your child experienced.
Validate your child's experience
As the alienated parent, you may want to defend yourself. You may want to invalidate what occurred in the other parents' home because you feel unjustly prosecuted by your child. However, you should validate your child's feelings and allow him or her to be open and honest about them. Validating how your child felt does not mean that you agree with what your former spouse said. Validating how children feel may help them open up more.
Establish a stable environment
Children thrive in stability. Try to create an environment that has routine and structure. For children who have a multitude of behavioral issues or who need more help, consider working with a child psychologist to help him or her develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Children are resilient, and while parental alienation can cause a strain on your relationship, you can rebuild it with transparency and open conversation.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483462023-11-21T20:17:48Z2023-11-21T20:17:48ZCommon symptoms of parental alienation
When one parent espouses hostile and negative views about the other parent, it creates a campaign of denigration. As a result, the child may also express unfounded and exaggerated criticism about the targeted parent. Often, the custodial parent consistently encourages these feelings.
Children affected by PAS may have difficulty justifying their negative feelings toward the targeted parent. They lack a rational explanation for their beliefs. The child unconditionally supports the alienating parent, adopting their perspective without critical evaluation.
Children influenced by PAS typically display a lack of guilt or ambivalence about their behavior. They display singular allegiance to the alienating parent.
Eventually, the alienating parent may actively involve the child in alienation scenarios. For example, they may sabotage visitation or otherwise undermine the parent-child relationship.
Steps to take as the targeted parent
Despite challenges, maintaining open communication with the child is critical. Encourage them to express their feelings and thoughts freely. Foster an environment where they feel supported and heard. Focus on building a strong, healthy relationship based on love, support and shared experiences.
Keep detailed records of instances where parental alienation occurs. Document conversations, actions and behaviors that may contribute to the child's negative perception.
Engage with mental health professionals who specialize in family dynamics and child psychology. Seek therapy for your child and yourself. If necessary, involve a neutral third party to facilitate communication between parents.
Research published by Psychiatric Times indicates that up to 15% of divorces involve parental alienation. In up to 25% of those cases, the behavior continues up to six years after divorce. Knowing the signs of parental alienation syndrome allows the targeted parent to take action right away.]]>On Behalf of Joshi, attorneys + counselorshttps://www.joshiattorneys.com/?p=483432023-10-28T20:47:31Z2023-10-28T20:47:31ZUnderstanding the legal aspects
When one parent takes their child to another country without the other parent's permission or in violation of a court order, the courts may consider it an international abduction. This can be a complex legal issue, as it typically involves custody and visitation rights.
Consent and custody agreements
Parents with shared custody or visitation agreements must adhere to the terms of these agreements. If one parent decides to take their child abroad during the summer without obtaining the other parent's consent or following the court-approved arrangements, it is often seen as a violation of the agreement.
The Hague Convention
Many countries are signatories to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. This treaty aims to protect children from abduction by a parent to another country. If your parent takes a child to a country that is part of this convention, there are legal procedures in place to help return the child to their country of habitual residence.
Legal consequences
When one parent takes their child abroad without proper consent or in violation of court orders, it can lead to legal consequences. This may include fines, loss of custody or even imprisonment in some cases. The legal system works to protect the rights and interests of both parents and the child.
In 2022, family abduction accounted for 4.5% of reported missing children. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, violating custody agreements can have severe consequences.]]>