Parents may abuse a child in relation to another parent often stemming from unresolved conflicts or emotional struggles.

One parent may use the child as a way to get back at the other parent for perceived wrongs, attempting to gain a sense of power or control. A parent may fear losing their relationship with the child and, in an attempt to prevent that, may engage in alienating behavior, even if it harms the child. Parents may manipulate in various ways to alienate a child from the other parent. Here are some common tactics:
1. False Allegations: One parent might make unfounded claims of abuse or neglect to sway custody decisions, creating a perception of danger around the other parent. To substantiate such false claims, a parent may turn to authorities with false accusations of domestic violence by the other parent or, for example, seek the help of psychologists to document the child's fears regarding the other parent. It is essential that, when making decisions in family law cases and providing documents or reports, the competent authority conducts a comprehensive examination of the issue and does not rely solely on the verbal claims of the applying party.
2. Restricting Contact: One parent may deliberately limit or interfere with visitation rights, making it difficult for the child to maintain a relationship with the other parent.
3. Badmouthing: Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child can influence the child’s perception and feelings.
4. Involving the Child in Disputes: Abusive parent might share details about custody battles or legal disputes that the child is too young to understand, burdening them with adult concerns. Parent may also ask the child to relay messages or information between parents, which can place the child in an uncomfortable position. The parent who involves the child in the conflict regularly engages in conversations and often feeds the child false information. In such circumstances, over time, the child may unconsciously begin to perceive that parent as the "right" side in the conflict, personally opposing the other parent.
5. Creating a Sense of Guilt: One parent might make the child feel guilty for wanting to spend time with the other parent. This can create emotional distress for the child, leading them to feel torn between their parents and hesitant to maintain a relationship with the one being criticized. Such guilt can damage the child's sense of loyalty and contribute to long-term emotional challenges.
6. Manipulating Legal Documents: Altering or misrepresenting information in legal documents to mislead the court about the other parent's character or situation.
Parental alienation can significantly harm a child's emotional and psychological development, making it essential to address and mitigate these issues as early as possible. It's important for legal professionals and courts to recognize these behaviors to protect the child's best interests.
It is very important for a lawyer specialized in family law to gather sufficient evidence regarding the presence of the behaviors listed above and, by presenting this to the relevant authorities, to prevent the abusive parent's actions.
If your child resides in Armenia and you are facing issues of parental alienation, please do not hesitate to contact us.