New Jersey divorce is often a situation filled with tension and anger. It can lead you to say things about your partner that are less than pleasant. However, if you have children, you should be more careful about what you say around them. Badmouthing your spouse in front of the children can lead to long-lasting negative effects that the children will carry with them for years.
Real Simple explains that talking bad about the other parent in front of the children can lead to many mixed emotions for them. Called parental alienation, it does not even have to be something you consciously do. Perhaps you mumble something under your breath or the kids overhear you when you are on the phone or talking to someone else. At any rate, the negative words have an impact.
When parental alienation occurs, it can lead the child to hate the other parent or be unreasonably angry with them. This can harm the relationship the child has with that parent. It can lead to lifelong relationship issues as well.
You have to be very careful with the words you use. Make sure not to use your child as a messenger. Do not say bad things or even suggest the other parent is in the wrong. All of these things can lead to negative feelings for your child. Instead, talk directly to the other parent if you need to communicate anything. Make sure the children are not around if you do need to vent about the other parent. Do not let your words impact the relationship your children have with their other parent. This information is for education and is not legal advice.