Parenting Styles vs. Dangerous Parents

 Posted on October 28, 2022 in Child Custody

It is not uncommon for parents to disagree about parenting style. Even parents who are together can have different opinions about how their children should be raised. When the parents are divorced, these differences may even become more pronounced. However, there is a difference between different parenting styles – such as one parent being strict about bedtimes while the other parent lets the child stay up as late as they want – and parenting choices and behaviors that can actually put a child in harm’s way. Knowing what those differences are and when you should report the other parent can be crucial to your child’s safety.

When to Report

No matter how upsetting it may be, the court will not intervene just because one parent does not agree with the way their ex-spouse is parenting their child. They will intervene, however, if there is evidence of any of the following:

• Behavioral and/or emotional changes in your child – If your child comes home from visits with the other parent withdrawn or acting out, this could be a sign that your child is being emotionally abused. While it is normal for children to exhibit some acting-out behaviors following custody exchanges and visitation, especially in the first few months following a divorce, dramatic changes in your normally outgoing child could be an indication that something is wrong.

• Defiance with your rules – Another sign that your ex-spouse’s parenting behaviors are causing an issue is if your child returns from visits and exhibits defiant attitudes about your rules. If they make statements such as, “Mommy says I don’t have to listen to you,” or “Daddy says you are not the boss of me,” this could be a strong indication that the other parent is trying to undermine your authority with your child and could even develop into a serious case of parental alienation.

• Unexplained bruises or injuries on your child – If your child suddenly begins coming home from visits with the other parent with bruises or injuries that they cannot explain or do not want to talk about, this could be a sign that your child is being physically abused by either your ex or someone your ex allows around your child. This type of evidence should be reported to your family lawyer, as well as to the appropriate authorities.

Contact a Travis County Family Law Attorney for Legal Assistance

If you are having child custody issues and are concerned your child may be in danger due to your ex-spouse’s behavior, a seasoned Austin, TX complex child custody attorney can help. Call Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC at 512-610-6199 to schedule a confidential consultation and find out what your legal options may be.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.152.htm