It seems I am not alone.

 

Parental alienation is the process, and the result, of the psychological manipulation of a child into showing unwarranted fear, disrespect or hostility towards a parent and/or other family members.^[1][2] It is a distinctive and widespread form of psychological abuse and family violence—towards both the child and the rejected family members—that occurs almost exclusively in association with family separation or divorce (particularly where legal action is involved)^[3] and that undermines core principles of both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United

It's heartbreaking to think of our dauughters having grown up, learning to avoid the ex's tantrums by doing as they are told.  Walking on eggshells is a phrase from a leaflet I was given.  Perhaps they are happy enough being housed, fed, and pampered (so long as they do not challenge and/or become independent)?