The emotional strain and confusion resulting from parental conflict can be overwhelming. The child may feel powerless, torn between loyalty to both parents or fearful of displeasing the ‘favoured’ alienating parent. Fear of displeasing the alienating parent, coupled with emotional manipulation and coercion, may prompt the child to distance themselves emotionally from the targeted parent, resorting to disassociation as a protective measure or psychologically ‘split’. This is because the child’s mind instinctively resorts to disassociation to protect itself from intense emotional distress.
Disassociation offers the child a psychological escape from the distress caused by parental alienation. By emotionally detaching from the alienated parent, the child shields themselves from the pain and confusion of their situation, essentially numbing themselves to cope with the overwhelming emotional turmoil.
However, despite the challenges posed by this emotional cut-off/disassociation, there is hope for children affected by parental alienation. Children can overcome this defence mechanism and reconnect with the alienated parent. Even from afar, the alienated parent can be a beacon of stability and love, providing a role model for their child. With time, understanding, and intervention, reconnection is possible, offering healing and restoration to families affected by parental alienation.
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