If you are a single mom worrying about parental alienation, chances are you are feeling lonely, worried, and overwhelmed with questions.
You’re in the right place. In this three-part series, we’re taking a closer look at parental alienation, examining some of its effects, and also providing some step-by-step guidance for what you can do to deal with this issue.
First, take a deep breath. While it’s one of the most painful experiences for a parent to go through, it is an issue that can be dealt with and resolved.
Remember, you deserve a parenting situation that’s healthy, empowering, and rewarding. And by simply be reading this article, you’re taking a huge step forward.
One of the first ways to deal with parental alienation is to learn more about it. Let’s take a closer look at some of the ways parental alienation can impact the kids involved.
The Effect of Parental Alienation on Children and Families
Parental alienation can have serious ramifications for kids of all ages; whether they’re just starting to talk, or about to enter high school.
Alienation, “creates a division, estrangement, and even hostility between the victimized parent and child,” explains Farzad Law.
The Symptoms
When a child is alienated from one of their parents, it impacts them in a whole range of ways - causing everything from confusion to depression, withdrawal to low self esteem.
As the Annals of Psychology points out, “over time the true victims, the children, can display serious symptoms of depression, aggressiveness, social withdrawal, and other psychological problems.”
Long-Term Impact
Parental alienation can affect young people as they grow and evolve, and may cause lasting impact into adulthood.
Canadian Justice Martinson (2010) points out that children who are the victims of parental alienation have “difficulty forming healthy relationships” and are at risk for “depression, suicide, substance abuse, antisocial behavior, enmeshment, and low self-esteem.”
A Time to Seek Help
If you’re concerned that you and your child might be experiencing parental alienation, then it’s a great time to take action.
In the next part of this three-part series, we’ll provide some step-by-step guidance for dealing with parental alienation, so you and your child can enjoy the strong, loving connection you truly deserve.
Want some friendly support from moms like you? Check out the Bonfami community - where you can find like-minded single-moms who cheerlead you through the great times and the tough times alike.
Summary of Parts I and III: Part one of this series helps to define parental alienation, and part three looks at ways to deal with parental alienation.
