Parental Alienation and Global Stress: Why Kids Struggle More in Times of Crisis

Lately, the world feels heavy. From war and political division to rising anxiety about safety and stability, we are all carrying a lot. But for children, especially those caught between their parents during a separation or divorce, this stress is even more overwhelming.

When a child is navigating parental alienation during a time of global unrest, they are often experiencing emotional pain on multiple levels. At home, they may feel forced to choose between parents or stay silent about their true feelings. In the world around them, they may be absorbing fear, worry, and unpredictability.

At The Couples Therapy & Reunification Counseling, we work closely with families who are living this every day. We see how world events can intensify already fragile family dynamics. Children in high-conflict custody situations often feel lost, confused, and unsure of who they can trust. When one parent criticizes or distances the child from the other parent, that child carries the emotional fallout. And during times of global stress, that weight becomes even harder to carry.

Children are more aware than we think. They pick up on energy, tone, and tension. They watch how their caregivers respond to stress. When parents are overwhelmed, children often become overwhelmed too. If a parent is also speaking negatively about the other parent, even in subtle ways, it becomes almost impossible for a child to feel emotionally safe.

In our sessions, we often remind parents that children need safety more than they need sides. They need connection, not confusion. They need the freedom to love both of their parents without guilt, shame, or fear.

It is during difficult times that alienation can quietly grow. When the world outside feels uncertain, a parent may tighten their grip emotionally. They might unintentionally pull the child closer by turning them against the other parent. This is not always done with bad intent. Often, it comes from fear. But the result is still damaging.

Healing is possible. We have seen it. Reunification therapy gives children the chance to reconnect with a parent they have been separated from. It gives them a space where they can speak honestly and begin to rebuild trust. It also gives parents tools to step back from conflict and focus on what really matters: the well-being of their child.

Our team also understands that many of the families we serve are carrying more than just the pain of divorce. Some are navigating trauma, cultural expectations, or fear tied to immigration. That is why we offer not only reunification therapy but also immigration-related mental health support. We provide psychological evaluations for hardship waivers, asylum, VAWA, and more. Every story matters to us. Every family matters.

If your family is going through a difficult time, we are here to help. You do not have to figure this out alone. Whether you are experiencing parental alienation, conflict, or emotional distance, we offer compassionate and professional support every step of the way. Our offices are located in Montebello and Newport Beach, and we are honored to serve families in both communities with care, understanding, and a deep commitment to healing.

Let us hold space for your healing. Your child deserves peace. You do too.