I've been told (bless my highly-opinionated readers) that it's way past time for a discussion on this topic.
If you follow my column, you’re familiar with the women’s issues I talk about: Health and wellness, mind-body connection, social concerns.
But I’m finding myself involved, with increasing frequency, in discussions with mothers whose children have turned over-the-top disrespectful, even overtly contemptuous towards them - and sometimes, these mothers are completely banished from their children’s lives.
I used to believe that this situation, commonly referred to as “Maternal Alienation,” was exclusively an issue after a divorce, especially one in which abuse was involved; however, I’m learning that it’s happening across the board.
There are too many mothers out there who are suffering the emotional and/or physical loss of their children.
Not through the Family Court, although of course that’s happening as well; but because their kids have been indoctrinated into a belief system that devalues women in general, and mothers in particular.
The catalysts for Maternal Alienation are complex, and the roots of it go back for decades - but the result is a culture that is trending to a total dismissal of a mother’s value and her status in society.
Since we’re approaching the time of year that is especially difficult for alienated mothers, I’m going to be devoting a few columns to answering some of the questions I’ve received from them.
We’ll start next time, with a question about how to deal with the intense loneliness of being rejected by one’s own children. If you’d like to share your story or ask a question, you can email me through my website. I truly love hearing from readers.
And on that subject, a personal note: While I don’t express my gratitude often enough, the feedback I get from readers is my main source of inspiration and encouragement, and I thank you. Stay in touch.
'Til next time,
Jenna
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Jenna Brooks is a women's issues coach, a seminar author and instructor, and is the award-winning author of the October Snow series. She welcomes your comments through her website, Jenna Brooks Online.