FAQ – Addressing Negative Comments to Children During Divorce in Texas
Q: What can I do if my ex makes negative comments about me to our children?
A: When a parent speaks negatively about the other parent in front of the children, it can cause emotional harm and create tension or confusion for the child. Texas family courts take this behavior seriously because it can amount to parental alienation—an attempt to turn a child against one parent.
If this is happening, it’s important to document the behavior and speak with a family law attorney right away. Courts can issue orders restricting communication or modify custody if the conduct harms your child’s emotional well-being.
Why Negative Comments Are Harmful
Children often internalize what they hear from their parents.
When one parent criticizes, blames, or insults the other in front of the children, it can:
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Create emotional distress and confusion
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Damage the child’s relationship with both parents
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Cause long-term behavioral or trust issues
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Undermine the stability the court is trying to protect
Texas judges look for parents who prioritize their children’s emotional health—not those who try to manipulate or control them through negative talk.
How Texas Courts View This Behavior
Under Texas Family Code § 153.001, the best interest of the child guides all custody and visitation decisions. Judges may view ongoing bad-mouthing as a failure to co-parent or even as psychological harm to the child.
If proven, this behavior can lead the court to:
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Order family counseling or parenting classes
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Modify custody or visitation to protect the child
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Include provisions in the parenting plan that limit or monitor communication
In serious cases, consistent negative behavior may be considered parental alienation, which can affect future custody decisions.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Child
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Stay calm and avoid reacting in front of the children—don’t mirror the same behavior.
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Document incidents by noting dates, times, and what was said.
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Save texts, emails, or voicemails that show ongoing negativity or harassment.
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Use a court-approved communication app such as OurFamilyWizard to keep interactions civil and documented.
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Consult your attorney to discuss modifying custody orders or requesting court intervention.
Remaining composed shows the court that you are the parent prioritizing your child’s well-being.
How The Ashmore Law Firm Can Help
At The Ashmore Law Firm, our Dallas family lawyers have experience handling high-conflict co-parenting cases. We help parents:
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Address emotional manipulation or alienation
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Gather proper documentation and evidence
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Request appropriate court orders or modifications
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Protect their children’s mental and emotional health
We understand that divorce is difficult, but your children’s peace of mind should never be compromised.
Learn More About:
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Parental alienation and emotional harm in Texas custody cases
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Co-parenting communication best practices
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Modifying custody orders to protect your children
Authority: Texas Family Code
