Stephen Williams
In Child Custody, Verbal abuse and Manipulation are not Co-Parenting
Updated: Oct 7, 2022

Verbal abuse and manipulation are not Co-Parenting, despite what the Other Side might call it. Real Co-Parenting is a good thing, but wielding that term to control, manipulate and abuse a Co-Parent is insidious. Guys, it’s okay not to talk to the Other Side except in writing and any more than absolutely necessary. Here’s why…
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Because real Co-Parenting is about patient requests, not demands. Real Co-Parenting is about giving space, not harassing or controlling. At its center, Co-Parenting is about listening, not talking, and we all know that’s harder than it sounds and that some folks are just incapable of it.
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If you’re hearing things like “I wish we could just co-parent and that you would just…(xyz)” that’s a red flag. Whatever XYZ is tends to be exactly what the Other Side wants to berate you into doing or allowing. We’re sorry if this sounds familiar, but we’re not surprised.
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Being a Co-Parent doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. Do not subject yourself to abuse in the name of Co-Parenting. Get your team together. Get some perspective. Get a game plan and strategies to help you stand up for yourself and be effective in dealing with the Other Side. Don’t get gaslighted by “Co-Parenting.”
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If you would like to learn more about how you, as a Committed Parent or Caring Relative, can stand up for yourself and be more effective in your Child Custody case, please click the “book appointment online” on the menu or top right of your screen to schedule your initial consultation at one of our offices.
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This article contains general information and should not be construed as legal advice for you and or your unique situation. ~SW, Foxtrot