Warning Signs of Parental Alienation

Warning Signs of Parental Alienation
How can you tell if your ex is attempting to alienate your child? Here are some warning symptoms psychologists have observed in children suffering from parental alienation syndrome, according to Dr. Douglas Darnall, Ph.D:

Giving a child a choice as to whether or not to visit with the other parent.

Telling the child details about the marital relationship or reasons for the divorce.

Refusing to acknowledge that the child has property and may want to transport possessions between residences.

Resisting or refusing to cooperate by not allowing the other parent access to school or medical records and schedules of extracurricular activities.

One parent blaming the other parent for financial problems, breaking up the family, changes in lifestyle, or having a girlfriend or boyfriend.

Refusing to be flexible with the visitation schedule in order to respond to the child's needs, or scheduling the child in so many activities that the other parent is never given the time to visit.

Assuming that if a parent has been physically abusive with the other parent, it follows that the parent will assault the child. This assumption is not always true.
Asking the child to choose one parent over the other.

The alienating parent encouraging any natural anger the child has toward the other parent.

A parent or stepparent suggesting changing the child's name or having the stepparent adopt the child.

When the child cannot give reasons for being angry towards a parent or gives reasons that are vague and without any details.

Using a child to spy or covertly gather information for the parent's own use.
Arranging temptations that interfere with the other parent's visitation.

Reacting with hurt or sadness to a child having a good time with the other parent.
Asking the child about the other parent's personal life.

Physically or psychologically rescuing a child when there is no threat to their safety.

Making demands on the other parent that are contrary to court orders.

Listening in on the child's phone conversation with the other parent.