For many families, the difficulties associated with divorce iron themselves out as everyone becomes accustomed to their new way of life. For others, ending their marriage is the beginning of their problems. Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS) is a harmful condition that can occur after divorce when one parent tries to alienate their child from the other. This is damaging to all members of a family, and should be avoided whenever possible.
Parental Alienation Syndrome is caused by repeated attacks on another parent’s character. This can occur intentionally, as one party frequently casts the other in a negative light or prevents them from seeing their child, and it can also occur unintentionally, as a result of unresolved tension or other issues. In any case, alienation gradually strips a child of their desire to spend time with another parent, dissolving the vital bond between child and parent.
Long-Term Consequences of Alienation
While PAS is generally directed toward another parent, its effects are far more widespread. In fact, this condition is so harmful to a child that it is considered to be a form of child abuse. When a person attempts to destroy the bond between their child and another parent, the child may suffer from the effects of this manipulation for the rest of their life.
Common side-effects of PAS include:
- Fear of the targeted parent
- Anger toward the parent
- Low self-esteem and guilt
If you sense that a former spouse is attempting to alienate your child from you, it is imperative that you take action immediately. During the divorce process, unmitigated alienation can prevent you from obtaining custody over your child, especially if your child is old enough for their opinion to weigh in on a ruling. After you have dissolved your marriage, PAS may lead to a reduction of time spent with your child or even a modification of your custody ruling. Alienation may affect your fundamental rights as a parent.
Seek Help from a Seasoned Attorney
Don’t wait to address any perceived alienation. Contact Steven N. Cole, LLC today to receive aid from an experienced divorce lawyer in Phoenix. With more than 20 years of experience in family law, our attorney has the ability to provide top-quality aid required for the most complex cases. We can work to protect your child and preserve your right to spend time with them.
Contact our office today to learn how we can help!