When it comes to marital issues and divorce, it can be easy for parents to involve innocent children who do not fully understand what is occurring. In many cases, parents may participate in parental alienation or estrangement without comprehending the consequences these acts may have on their children or their relationships with their children. In a book titled, Bold Love, authors Dr. Dan Allender and Dr. Tremper Longman III discuss the issues of sadness that estranged and alienated persons undergo through their lives. In addition, the two discuss the importance of parents rebuilding relationships with those harmed as a result.
Because our New York family lawyers at Eiges & Orgel, PLLC are dedicated to safeguarding children during family law related matters, we have taken the time to explain the difference between estrangement and parental alienation. In addition, we explain how divorcing parents can avoid participating in emotionally harmful acts towards their children.
Understanding Parental Alienation
Parental alienation occurs when a parent deliberately attempts to separate a child from the other parent. For example, a couple may decide to file for divorce after one spouse has an affair. However, if the other parent begins to share the information with the child in an attempt to make the child harbor ill feelings towards the cheating parent, the parent sharing the detailed information may cause the child to distance themselves from the other parent or develop feelings of hatred toward the parent.
Understanding Estrangement
Estrangement occurs when multiple conflicts, such as arguments, arise between a child and the parent. In most cases, the child will suffer great emotional distresses, feelings of betrayal, or feelings of disappointment. Oftentimes, this results in the child cutting contact with the parent.
Avoiding Alienation and Estrangement
In both alienation and estrangement, a child suffers because a parent deliberately or subconsciously puts their own needs before the needs of the child. Children heavily rely on their parents to supply them with the following:
- Love
- Consideration
- Valuation
When a parent fails to provide these emotional necessities, a child can suffer a lifetime of consequences and hardships. For this reason, it is important for parents to pay close attention to their child during times of difficulty in a relationship, especially during matters such as divorce.
Are You Contemplating Divorce But Share Children With Your Spouse? Our Team Can Help.
At Eiges & Orgel, PLLC, our legal team is committed to protecting the rights of families undergoing difficulties such as divorce. We understand that these matters can be extremely complex and can affect multiple parties involved, and that is why we are here. At our firm, we do our best to ensure every party involved, especially shared children, are cared for from beginning to end. If you are contemplating, divorce and are worried about your children throughout the process, get in touch with a New York divorce lawyer from our firm right away. We have the experience and resources it takes to streamline the process for your family.
To discuss your case, get in touch with Eiges & Orgel, PLLC, or fill out a consultation form online!