Noncustodial Mother's Day

This article explores why noncustodial mothers should be listening to podcasts hosted by other noncustodial mothers—and why these voices matter now more than ever. In the early 2000s, noncustodial mothers were rarely seen or heard. By 2008, after earning my degree, I skipped my graduation ceremony and instead focused on creating my first website for noncustodial mothers, Abused Swan. At the time, it was one of only three websites addressing family court issues. My children had been concealed from me, and becoming the first person in my family—and his—to earn a degree felt meaningless in the face of that loss. Even today, I continue to meet noncustodial mothers who had no idea what truly happens inside family court. If you do not know the issues exist or what to look for, you will never find them. That is why podcasts hosted by noncustodial mothers are so important. These women are speaking openly about their experiences and helping other parents find the courage to share their own stor...

Women leaving violent relationships face many challenges and risks. A survivor with children may encounter even greater barriers in protecting herself and her children from an ex-partner. These barriers are especially insidious because they take the form of “no-win” situations or “traps.” If she stays, she may be accused of “failing to protect” her children from violence and then faces more violence, yet leaving means facing the risk of stalking, harassment and more abuse. Reporting threats or violence to authorities or being reluctant to co-parent means she goes against the “friendly parent” standard used to award custody. She also risks being accused of making false allegations of abuse or being labeled as an “ alienator, ” causing “parental alienation syndrome” in her child.  HOME