The only reason I want it finalised quickly is because there's not currently a legally enforceable agreement. Meaning if X decides to withhold S2 again, he can without recourse.
It is really uncomfortable not having a legally enforceable agreement with kids. It can play into a lot of fear and distrust. I'm sorry you have to deal with that.
Originally Posted by scout12
I find it quite manipulative to invoke family members in a custody discussion because he knows that holds a lot of emotional weight with me. Like messaging my stepdad asking him to tell me to do the right thing. That was distasteful. And now this.
Very manipulative.
I'm sure he has a justification for what he did in his own head. It's convenient to be able to live life without being self-aware about one's own cognitive distortions.
Originally Posted by scout12
I know it seems like this is a high-conflict situation, but he has actually folded quite easily on the majority of negotiations. I state my position, he says his piece, I respond coolly and calmly with either compromise or explanation, he goes silent. After a couple of weeks, I pick up the thread again, he ignores the previous issue, and moves onto the next. So we plod along. The problem is that Christmas is the final issue, which I believe is why he continues to kick the can down the road.
Well, it's not high-conflict because you have chosen not to feed the fire. DB at work!
I completely understand your frustration with trying to negotiate with this type of person. It can be really maddening. I think you are handling it perfectly.
