Parental alienation is a form of domestic abuse that is often misunderstood. It is a subtle, yet harmful, strategy used by one parent to manipulate a child against the other parent.
This can lead to significant emotional and psychological damage. By raising awareness and recognizing the signs of parental alienation, victims can start their healing journey. It is vital to understand that this behavior is not just a custody dispute but a tactic of emotional abuse, coercive control, and narcissistic manipulation.
Understanding Parental Alienation as Abuse
Parental alienation occurs when one parent intentionally undermines the relationship between a child and the other parent. This behavior may involve constant criticism, manipulation, or distortion of reality. Often, the child becomes confused, anxious, and may resist contact with the targeted parent. These actions are not only harmful to the child but also constitute emotional and psychological abuse.
Parental alienation fits the description of abuse as outlined in the Power and Control Wheel. The Power and Control Wheel was created to help identify the abusive behaviors used by perpetrators of domestic violence. One of the categories in the wheel, “Using Children,” specifically applies to parental alienation. This highlights how a parent manipulates a child to gain control over the other parent, often using the child as a weapon.
The Role of Somatic Trauma-Informed Coaching
While emotional abuse can feel invisible, it leaves deep scars in the body and mind. The trauma of parental alienation is not only psychological; it is somatic as well. Somatic trauma-informed coaching focuses on how trauma is stored in the body. It helps individuals reconnect with their physical selves, process the trauma, and regain a sense of safety.
By working with a somatic coach, victims of parental alienation can begin to address the emotional pain caused by the abuse. Coaching techniques might include deep breathing, mindfulness, and body awareness practices to release the tension and anxiety stored in the body. These methods are designed to help survivors of narcissistic abuse and parental alienation reclaim their sense of power, control, and healing.
Narcissistic Abuse and Parental Alienation
It is important to recognize that parental alienation is often linked to narcissistic abuse. Narcissistic parents tend to engage in manipulative behaviors, often using their children as pawns to fulfill their need for control. The abuser may devalue and belittle the other parent, presenting them as unworthy or unsafe, while portraying themselves as the “victim.” These tactics are consistent with narcissistic abuse patterns and contribute to the alienation process.
Understanding narcissistic abuse is essential in recognizing the full scope of parental alienation. Narcissistic abuse is manipulative and covert. It often leaves the targeted parent feeling powerless and confused. The psychological damage caused by such manipulation can be profound, but with the right tools, it is possible to heal.
Reframing Parental Alienation as Domestic Abuse
One of the most crucial steps in healing from parental alienation is reframing it as domestic abuse. In family courts, it is often dismissed as a mere custody dispute. However, by referring to it as domestic abuse, especially through the lens of the Power and Control Wheel, victims can shed light on the true nature of the manipulation.
Parental alienation is not just a matter of parental conflict; it is an abusive tactic used to control and manipulate. When recognized as such, victims can access legal and emotional support tailored to domestic abuse victims. They can also begin to take the necessary steps toward recovery.
Conclusion: Taking the First Step Toward Healing
Awareness is the first step toward healing. Recognizing parental alienation as abuse allows individuals to break free from the cycle of manipulation. By combining somatic trauma-informed coaching with an understanding of narcissistic abuse, victims can reclaim their lives and find a path to recovery. The journey is not easy, but with the right tools and support, it is possible to overcome the trauma of parental alienation and build a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Kevin R Webb (MEd.L, BEd., BA Found., QTS), Somatic Trauma Informed Narcissistic Abuse Coach
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Power And Control Wheel YouTube channel and click on the bell to be notified of updates.
Other social media pages for The Power And Control Wheel:
www.facebook.com/thepowerandcontrolwheel
www.instagram.com/thepowerandcontrolwheel
www.x.com/controlwheel
LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwebbmed/
info@thepowerandcontrolwheel.co.uk
If you’ve experienced abuse of any type and can’t find a way forward, contact me for effective, affordable, coaching support. Email support@thepowerandcontrolwheel.co.uk
Leave a Reply