The process of going through a divorce is never easy. The high stress that comes with contentious issues like child support and property division can negatively affect one’s mental health. It is not uncommon for one party to feel hurt, disappointed, stressed and resentful. It is also not uncommon for an individual going through divorce to seek support from the people around them and, in doing so, end up badmouthing their future ex.
A spouse may resort to badmouthing their partner for all kinds of reasons. Some do so in an attempt to gain the support and sympathy of those around them. Others badmouth their partners simply because they want to get revenge. However, no matter your motivation, it is important to understand that badmouthing your spouse is one of the worst mistakes you can make during the divorce process.
Here are two of the reasons why you should never badmouth your spouse while going through a divorce:
Badmouthing can hurt the children
Children often find themselves caught up in a divorce battle. Via negative comments and badmouthing, children are influenced to believe one parent is “good” while the other is “bad.” That can rob them of an opportunity to build and maintain a healthy relationship with both parents — which is something children usually need to thrive.
Badmouthing can damage your custody case
Making disparaging remarks about your spouse in the presence of your children amounts to alienation, and this can negatively impact your custody case. Sometimes, the court may issue a temporary injunction when you file for divorce. Besides preventing unnecessary conflicts, an injunction is also meant to prevent both parties from engaging in unethical behavior like badmouthing each other. If the court believes that you’re incapable of supporting a positive relationship between your children and your co-parent, that can definitely damage your custody case.
Before you speak negatively about your spouse, make sure you consider the consequences for your divorce.