Understanding Parental Alienation with Dr. Amy J.L. Baker

In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Dr. Amy J.L. Baker, a developmental psychologist and expert in parental alienation, discusses the complexities of co-parenting and its psychological impacts on children. She explains the behaviors that contribute to alienation, how to identify them, and the importance of maintaining healthy communication between co-parents. 

Dr. Baker also provides insights into recognizing early warning signs of alienation, distinguishing it from legitimate rejection, and offers practical strategies for navigating high-conflict co-parenting situations. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience and hope for targeted parents, highlighting that relationships can shift and improve over time.

You can learn more about Dr. Baker’s books, research, and talks at AmyJLBaker.com

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axK_1kKjOZ0

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Books by Amy JL Baker: 

• Adult Children of Parental Alienation Syndrome: Breaking the Ties That Bind
• Co-parenting with a Toxic Ex: What to Do When Your Ex-Spouse Tries to Turn the Kids Against You

Keywords
parental alienation, co-parenting, child psychology, family dynamics, psychological maltreatment, parenting strategies, child development, family conflict, emotional well-being, resilience

Key Takeaways

• Parental alienation involves one parent fostering a child's unjustified rejection of the other parent.
• Not all children who reject a parent are alienated; some may be estranged due to legitimate reasons.
• There are 17 primary parental alienation behaviors that parents should be aware of.
• It's crucial for parents to reflect on their own behaviors to avoid inadvertently alienating their children.
• Distinguishing between alienation and legitimate rejection requires ruling out abuse or neglect
• High-conflict co-parents should always show up for their parenting time, regardless of the situation.
• When children express negative comments about a parent, responding with care and openness is important.
• Maintaining hope and connection with children is vital for targeted parents, even in difficult circumstances.

Sound Bites
"You do have to rule out abuse or neglect."
"Always, always, always show up."

Chapters
02:03 Understanding Parental Alienation
03:38 Identifying Alienating Behaviors
06:31 Recognizing Warning Signs in Children
07:18 Distinguishing Alienation from Legitimate Rejection
10:38 The Impact on Extended Family
12:16 Practical Tips for High-Conflict Co-Parenting
14:40 Navigating Child Behavior During Transitions
16:56 Responding to Negative Comments About Co-Parents
18:56 Navigating Child Relationships and Self-Awareness
20:27 The Role of Perspective in Parenting
21:35 Addressing Co-Parenting Challenges
23:13 Managing Disrespectful Behavior from Children
26:30 Understanding Parental Alienation
30:24 Messages of Hope for Targeted Parents
34:44 Understanding the Dynami

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