When you begin to notice your children acting differently in the time following a divorce and a new child custody situation, you may wonder what to do next.

In some cases, this problem could happen because of parental alienation. If you struggle to notice signs of this issue, then learning more about what happens when your co-parent tries to influence your children is helpful.

Oversharing inappropriate details

According to Psychology Today, one way some co-parents attempt to alienate children is by sharing personal information about you. This kind of discussion often leads to your children knowing private details about the divorce or your life that they may not be emotionally ready to know.

Not only can this potentially change their opinion of you, but it can also make them want to talk to you less often. Since your co-parent’s goal is to break the bond between you both, then this kind of sharing can lead to alienation.

Shutting down communication

If you notice your children suddenly requesting that they go back to your ex-spouse’s home sooner, then they may struggle with a co-parent who is trying to subtly turn them against you. Your co-parent may blame you for the divorce or lie about how you feel about your children, which leads to your children refusing to talk to you.

Stating untrue accusations

Your co-parent may even say that normal childhood cuts and bruises your children get from playing outside are signs that you do not love your children. This kind of negativity can make your children hesitate to share personal feelings with you as time goes on.

Learning about how alienation happens and what subtle signs to look for can help you as you parent your children after a divorce.