Discovering that you’ve been the target of disparaging remarks can be devastating, leaving you feeling betrayed. It’s natural to want to respond, but damage control may not always be the most effective approach. The hostility and resentment that often accompany divorce can lead to badmouthing. While it’s not unusual for one or both parties to speak negatively about their ex behind their back, one party may take things too far. Please continue reading as we explore the steps you can take if your ex badmouths you to your kids and how our seasoned Monmouth County Divorce & Separation Attorneys can assist you.
What is Badmouthing?
Divorce is an emotional process, often brining out the worst in people. The negatively that can accompany the dissolution of a marriage can manifest in various ways, one of the most damaging being badmouthing the other parent to the children.
Coping with your new reality is challenging enough without the added burden of a former spouse attempting to poison your children’s perception of you. Children are vulnerable and hearing one parent badmouth the other can create feelings of confusion, anxiety, and guilt.
Badmouthing can take many forms. It can occur in private or public settings, and can be communicated to a single person or spread online to a much larger audience. Badmouthing can include name-calling, spreading lies or negative stories, and assigning unwarranted blame criticism.
What to Do When Your Ex Badmouths You to the Kids?
It’s important to understand that you have the right to protect your children from this type of emotional manipulation. If your ex spouse is speaking negatively about you to your kids, there are steps you can take to address the situation.
First and foremost, you should remain calm and composed. You should avoid engaging in arguments with your ex spouse in front of your children. Validate your children’s feelings by assuring them that it’s okay to feel upset about hearing negative things and offer them your support. You should tray to communicate your concerns with your ex, emphasizing how their comments are affecting the children and request they refrain from making disparaging remarks. When speaking to your ex, you should prioritize your child’s best interests.
Don’t stoop to their level. You should avoid badmouthing your ex, as this will only escalate matters. If your ex continues to badmouth you to the kids, document their behavior. This can be incredibly helpful if you decide to take legal action.
As you can see, spouses may say negative things about each other, which can be harmful to their children. This can put children in the middle of conflict and negatively impact their well-being. If your ex’s behavior significantly impacts your ability to co-parent or is causing emotional distress to your children, it’s in your best interest to consult a dedicated attorney from Paone Zaleski & Murphy to discuss potential custody modifications.
