How manipulation and control hide in plain sight

OCD was given as the excuse for deleting texts, even though my ex constantly checked my phone for messages. What he framed as a disorder was actually another tool for control.

social media and digital control

I was blocked from my own social accounts repeatedly, while he denied his own surveillance and manipulative behaviours. Accusations were flipped—what he accused me of was actually what he was doing.

manipulation in court

Even in court, the narrative was inverted: I was accused of parental alienation, delaying proceedings, harming his mental health and using the children against him while he engaged in all of these behaviours and more.

why this matters

Coercive control after separation is often invisible to the courts, leaving survivors misrepresented and vulnerable. Awareness training, stricter enforcement and fair treatment are essential to protect families from emotional and psychological harm.