Ex did not want custody and spends minimal time with DC, DC is feeling bad/neglected

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:
No, I did not have an affair. Ex left us, quickly moved in with GF while we were separated. My priority is my DC. I don't date and if I eventually do, I won't prioritize a new partner over my child.

Thanks for those who provided empathy and some insight from their own experiences. There are some helpful comments here.

Marriage counselors say: When spouse is dating/moving in with someone 3-6 months after separation, that means they were there all along. They are the affair partner, you just don't know. And the affair is usually the reason the marriage failed.

So, no, no reason for you or your son to have to be nice to the AP. Just be silent or supportive to your son

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
No, I did not have an affair. Ex left us, quickly moved in with GF while we were separated. My priority is my DC. I don't date and if I eventually do, I won't prioritize a new partner over my child.

Thanks for those who provided empathy and some insight from their own experiences. There are some helpful comments here.

Marriage counselors say: When spouse is dating/moving in with someone 3-6 months after separation, that means they were there all along. They are the affair partner, you just don't know. And the affair is usually the reason the marriage failed.

So, no, no reason for you or your son to have to be nice to the AP. Just be silent or supportive to your son

This is the approach I am taking - being supportive of DC's needs. Ex's new partner has been awful to my DC so far, and DC has been very clear about not being interested in building a relationship with her or her (much younger) kids. I don't feel my DC is obligated to invest time with AP and her kids if DC is uncomfortable doing so.