Examples of Parental Alienation in Georgia

Whether you experience parental alienation or unwittingly engage in this behavior, it is important to understand how it might affect your divorce in Atlanta. Parental alienation is a broad term that refers to the interference with a child-parent relationship. It makes sense to avoid this behavior at all costs, and you should respond to it effectively if you become a victim of parental alienation. Parental alienation can result in negative child custody outcomes for the guilty parent. A child custody lawyer in Atlanta may be able to help you address this issue.

Spreading Rumors 

An obvious example of conduct that may suggest parental alienation is occurring is the spreading of false rumors. A parent might tell their child that the other parent has a drug addiction when no such addiction exists. They might tell their child about past domestic violence incidents that never occurred. They could even tell their child that the other parent hates them. This might include exaggerating past events rather than complete fabrications.

 Openly Criticizing the Other Parent 

Open criticism is another form of conduct that suggests parental alienation may be occurring. A parent might highlight the other parent’s flaws – including tardiness, disorganization, or low income. They might also highlight their past mistakes, their failure to meet certain goals, and so on. This all paints a negative picture in the mind of the child.

 Accusatory Social Media Posts 

Even if a parent does not carry out parental alienation in the presence of the child, they may still face consequences for public online posts. Most children today are very familiar with social media and technology. They can easily access these online posts. Avoid accusatory social media posts throughout the entire divorce process. If you continue to criticize your ex on social media after the divorce, you may encounter negative child custody consequences.

 Preventing Contact 

Perhaps the most obvious example of parental alienation is preventing contact. This could be either physical or verbal contact. For example, you might call your ex’s home to speak with your child. Your ex might tell you that your child doesn’t want to speak with you – but they might be intentionally preventing these conversations without even consulting the child. Another obvious example is preventing you from spending time with your child.

How Can a Custody Lawyer in Atlanta Help With Parental Alienation? 

A child custody lawyer in Atlanta may be able to help address issues related to parental alienation. Book a consultation with Kaye, Lembeck, Hitt & French to discuss this issue in more detail. With our help, you may be able to take legal action against a parent who impedes your relationship with your child. We can also help you respond effectively to accusations of parental alienation. Reach out today to get started with an action plan.

Sources: 

childwelfare.gov/resources/determining-best-interests-child-georgia/

psychologytoday.com/ca/basics/parental-alienation