Parenting a teenager is difficult even under the best of circumstances. When parents live separately and share custody, it can be even more difficult for them to effectively work together.
Disputes between parents and teenagers are common, and they usually resolve with time. However, when one parent has limited parenting time, the conflict could easily spiral out of control and cause permanent relationship damage. The teenage child might refuse to spend time with one parent, despite the terms of the custody order for the family.
Can children and teenagers refuse to follow the schedule outlined in a custody order?
Children are subject to parental authority
With exceptions for emancipated minors, minor children are subject to the authority of their parents. Their parents must act in their best interests and also have an obligation to follow the custody order.
If one parent refuses to send a rebellious teenager to the other parent’s home, that could lead to custody enforcement actions by the other parent. A judge might even consider modifying the custody order or ordering reunification services. The focus should always be on what is best for the children.
Respecting a teenager’s feelings can be important, but the parents still have an obligation to ensure their children maintain a bond with both adults in the family. With exceptions for cases involving addiction, abuse and neglect, continued relationships with both parents are usually what is best for children.
Recognizing that a teenager does not get to dictate custody terms can help parents dealing with a dispute more effectively assert themselves. Non-compliance with a custody order may lead to a court hearing to enforce or modify a custody order.