Having a good parenting relationship is beneficial for a former couple’s children, but some parents are unable and/or unwilling to make that happen. One of the most important things for parents to remember is that they need to do what’s in their child’s best interests, regardless of how they feel about each other.

When a parent deliberately tries to come between their child and their child’s other parent, this effort may result in what’s known as malicious parent syndrome. This approach can hurt the parent being targeted, but the worst damage may be done to the child because they’re caught in the middle.

Signs of malicious parent syndrome

Malicious parent syndrome can stem from a host of actions through which a malicious parent attacks the targeted parent. These actions may include:

  • Badmouthing the other parent: The malicious parent may take direct attacks on the targeted parent by speaking negatively of them to the children. A child may become anxious and confused because of the situation. They may feel pressured to takes sides.
  • Interfering with parenting time: The malicious parent might try to cut down on the other parent’s time with the child by making the child unavailable or planning activities during the other parent’s scheduled time. This is done to keep the targeted parent out of the child’s life.
  • Manipulating the child: The malicious parent may try to make the child feel guilty for wanting to spend time with the targeted parent. This can lead to alienation, which is when the child starts rejecting the other parent due to the influence of the malicious parent.
  • False accusations: The malicious parent may make false accusations of neglect or abuse so they can try to get the court to take away the targeted parent’s time with the child.

Some of these signs might not be present in all cases, and they can be subtle in others.

Addressing malicious family syndrome

The court may opt to modify parenting plans if it’s proven that one parent is acting maliciously. The court might order counseling for the child or parents, adjust visitation schedules or change custody to protect the child’s well-being. Working with a legal representative who can assist with situations like this may reduce the stress for the targeted parent.