Dealing with the aftermath of a divorce is hard on anyone. But sometimes, parents lose sight of the important things. For example, many deprioritize their child’s best interest in their pursuit of revenge.
This is an all too common story that happens any time parental alienation rears its head. But what is parental alienation, and how does it impact your child?
Signs of PAS in children
Psychology Today discusses the impact of parental alienation on victims. Parental alienation involves the alienating parent driving a wedge between you and your child. They will use any desperate tactic in the book to do this, including gaslighting and manipulation. Courts often deem parental alienation as a form of abuse because of this.
As with other forms of abuse, parental alienation often leaves victims with scars. Your child may suffer from parental alienation syndrome (PAS). It manifests differently in all children. On top of that, PAS can continue impacting your child well into adulthood.
As a child, a victim of PAS often goes through behavioral and emotional changes. They may withdraw and seem sullen or depressed. They could lash out at others, especially authority figures. They may distance themselves from peers. They could display aggressive and distrustful behavior toward you as a result of the manipulation, too.
Lingering effects of PAS
As adults, PAS victims often cite difficulties forming and keeping healthy relationships. They often blame this on trouble trusting, which first started happening in childhood. PAS victims also have a higher rate of depression and anxiety. On top of that, many form poor coping mechanisms like drinking.
Due to the extensive and impactful effect of PAS, you want to act fast if you notice the signs. Consider contacting a legal expert to learn more about your options.
