I’m looking for some advice about stopping contact between my ex and our young child of 20 months. Co-parenting with him has become increasingly toxic and emotionally unsafe, and I’m at the point where I don’t know what’s best for our child anymore.
He is extremely critical, controlling, and unpredictable. He often undermines me in front of others, mocks me when I try to discuss parenting decisions, and twists situations to make himself the victim.
He never takes responsibility for his behaviour — when confronted, he either guilt-trips, blames me, or uses emotional manipulation
He doesnt contribute to day-to-day care but still insists on control over decisions. He’s prioritised his own comfort and social life over childs needs, and when I’ve raised concerns about safety, boundaries, or childs wellbeing, he responds with hostility or belittling comments. There’s a pattern of gaslighting, emotional volatility, and coercive control.
I’m worried about the emotional impact this is already having on our child.
Has anyone else been through something similar? I want to protect my child without being accused of withholding unfairly.