Do you wonder what is considered harassment by a co parent? When parents haven’t worked out their differences or addressed underlying issues, co-parenting after a divorce or separation can be extremely difficult.
Some co-parents, however, engage in harassing conduct towards each other, which can have a detrimental impact on their children and their ability to co-parent properly. So, what is considered harassment by a co parent?
We’ll discuss what constitutes co-parental harassment and what measures may be taken by law to protect victims. We’ll talk about how to report co-parental harassment and how to get support if you or your kids are being harassed.
What is Considered Harassment by a Co Parent?
When there is still tension and conflict between the parents, co-parenting can be very taxing. Then, what is considered harassment by a co parent?
Unfortunately, one parent’s actions toward the other may constitute harassment in some circumstances. Any form of co-parental abuse is unacceptable, and this includes verbal, emotional, and physical abuse.
Refusing to adhere to a court-ordered parenting plan, using the children as a tool to manipulate or control the other parent, making false accusations or spreading rumors about the other parent, and stalking or other intrusive behaviors are all examples of what is considered harassment by a co parent.
Co-parental harassment can have devastating impacts on the victim and the children and may even be considered an act of domestic abuse.
Types of Harassment in Co-Parenting
Now that you have the basics of what is considered harassment by a co parent, let’s take a closer look at the different types of harassment in co-parenting. Recognizing and responding to co-parental harassment, in all its manifestations, is crucial for preserving a positive co-parenting dynamic and ensuring everyone’s safety.
Common forms of harassment that might arise during co-parenting include the following:
- Verbal Harassment: This involves making persistent, harassing phone calls or sending texts, as well as making verbal attacks in person.
- Emotional Harassment: Intentionally damaging the other parent’s self-esteem or confidence by making false allegations or spreading rumors about them, or by participating in manipulative or controlling behaviors, falls into this category.
- Physical Harassment: Acts of physical aggression or threats of violence against the other parent fall under this category, as do acts of stalking or intrusion.
It is important to recognize that all forms of what is considered harassment by a co parent can have serious negative effects on both the targeted parent and the children involved, and may even be a form of domestic violence.
How to Deal with Co Parenting Harassment
Although it may be challenging and frustrating to deal with co-parenting harassment, there are measures you may do to safeguard yourself and your children. Some suggestions on how to deal with what is considered harassment by a co parent:
- It’s important to set firm limits with your co-parent in terms of communication and engagement, and to be clear and aggressive about what is and isn’t appropriate conduct.
- Document every instance of harassment, including when it occurred, for how long, and in what specific ways.
- Consider attending a support group for co-parents who are experiencing similar challenges, and don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, relatives, or a therapist for emotional assistance.
- A restraining order or other legal action may be necessary to ensure the safety of you and your children in the event of severe or persistent harassment.
- Tell your kids the truth about what’s going on and make sure they know the bullying isn’t their fault.
Examples of Co-Parenting Harassment
Besides the above steps to deal with co-parenting harassment, here are some specific examples of what is considered harassment by a co parent.
By constantly phoning the other parent and leaving threatening or intimidating voicemails, or by sending threatening or abusive texts or emails. Continually missing kid exchanges or otherwise refusing to comply with a parenting plan established by the court.
Falsely accuse the other parent of substance misuse or unfit parenting when there is no proof of such behavior on their part. Showing up unannounced at the other parent’s house or place of work is an example of stalking behavior.
Refusing to let the other parent talk to the children on the phone or giving them access to vital information about the children’s lives as a means of controlling or manipulating the other parent.
Co Parenting Communication Guidelines
Knowing what is considered harassment by a co parent is important and it has been given through this blog post. Maintaining an open and fruitful line of communication with a former partner can be challenging, but is crucial for effective co-parenting. Some tips for talking it out as co-parents:
- Avoid being too personal or emotional in your messages; instead, stick to the facts.
- Always speak in a polite and businesslike manner.
- Use a neutral tone that places emphasis on finding solutions to the issue at hand rather than accusatory or defensive rhetoric.
- Don’t ignore your co-parent’s requests for communication and do what you can to be understanding and flexible.
- Keep in mind that when communicating as co-parents, you should always keep your child’s best interests in mind and steer clear of discussing sensitive topics that could have an adverse effect on your child.
Conclusion
There you know what is considered harassment by a co parent! In conclusion, co-parenting can be a challenging and complex process, and effective communication is essential to ensure that the needs of both parents and children are being met.
By following these co-parenting communication guidelines from Janet McCullar, you can help maintain a positive and productive dialogue with your former partner and ensure that your child’s needs are being met.
FAQs about Co-Parenting Harassment
What is considered harassment by a co parent?
Co-parenting harassment refers to any behavior by a co-parent that is intended to cause distress, fear, or harm to the other parent, and may include verbal, emotional, physical, or legal abuse.
What are some examples of co-parenting harassment?
Examples of co-parenting harassment may include repeated phone calls or text messages with derogatory or threatening messages, making false accusations or spreading rumors, or engaging in stalking or other intrusive behaviors.
What are the effects of co-parenting harassment on children?
Co-parenting harassment can have serious negative effects on children, including anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and difficulty forming healthy relationships with others.
How can I protect myself and my children from co-parenting harassment?
Setting clear boundaries, seeking support, documenting incidents of harassment, and taking legal action if necessary can help protect you and your children from co-parenting harassment.
What should I do if I experience co-parenting harassment?
If you are experiencing co-parenting harassment, it is important to seek help and support from a therapist, family mediator, or legal professional.
Is co-parenting harassment a form of domestic violence?
Yes, co-parenting harassment can be a form of domestic violence, and it is important to take it seriously and seek help if you are experiencing it.
What legal options are available for dealing with co-parenting harassment?
Legal options for dealing with co-parenting harassment may include obtaining a restraining order, modifying a custody agreement, or pursuing criminal charges.
Is knowing what is considered harassment by a co parent important?
Yes, knowing what is considered harassment by a co-parent is important for protecting yourself and your children, and for maintaining a healthy co-parenting relationship.
Can co-parenting harassment be resolved through mediation?
In some cases, co-parenting harassment can be resolved through mediation with the help of a trained mediator or family therapist.
What should I do if my co-parent is refusing to follow a court-ordered parenting plan?
If your co-parent is refusing to follow a court-ordered parenting plan, you may need to take legal action to enforce the plan and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
