apukontaktia
Apukontaktia, also known as parental alienation, is a psychological phenomenon where one parent, typically the non-custodial parent, manipulates or isolates the other parent from their child. This behavior often occurs in the context of high-conflict custody disputes or divorce proceedings. The term was coined by Dr. Richard Gardner in 1984, who described it as a form of psychological abuse.
Apukontaktia can manifest in various ways, including:
- Denying the other parent access to the child, either physically or emotionally.
- Spreading false or misleading information about the child to the other parent.
- Encouraging the child to turn against the other parent.
- Using guilt trips or emotional manipulation to control the child's relationship with the other parent.
The effects of apukontaktia can be severe, including:
- Emotional distress for the child, who may feel confused, angry, or betrayed.
- Strain on the parent-child relationship, leading to long-term emotional damage.
- Disruption of the child's social and emotional development.
Addressing apukontaktia typically involves:
- Professional intervention, such as therapy or mediation.
- Legal action to enforce custody rights.
- Encouraging open communication between the parents and the child.
It's important to note that apukontaktia is not a reflection of the child's feelings or the other