Children appear to be a primary source of stress for many parents.This stress can get intense when the marriage itself is troubled and one parent enlists a child into a coalition against the other parent.This situation is referred to by systems theorists as:

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Triangulation is a concept in family systems theory where a third person or issue is brought into a dysfunctional relationship to create a sense of stability or alleviate tension. In the case of a troubled marriage, a parent may enlist a child as a way to gain support in their conflict with the other parent. This puts the child in a difficult position and can cause long-term emotional harm. Desertification is not a recognized concept in family systems theory, co-parent alienation is a similar concept but not the primary focus of this scenario, and conflict assumption is not a recognized concept in family systems theory.

Children Appear to Be a Primary Source of Stress for Many