From Hatred to Civility in Separated Families

This full-day interactive workshop explores current research on ex-couple hatred, its correlates and consequences within separated families. Participants examine how hatred emerges and persists in one or both parties following separation, its relationship to ongoing interparental conflict, and the implications for children, parents and post-separation family functioning. Drawing on emerging evidence and a systemic framework, the workshop translates research into practical models of response and opportunities for rapid, brief intervention. Participants learn how to recognise early signs of entrenched hostility, support families experiencing ongoing conflict, and identify strategies that promote civility, emotional regulation and improved outcomes for children and families.

What will you learn

• Identify factors that contribute to the emergence and persistence of hatred in separated families.
• Describe the impact of entrenched hostility and interparental conflict on parents, children and post-separation family functioning.
• Evaluate how hatred differs from violence, civility and safety within family relationships.
• Apply a systemic lens to understand family tribalism and conflict dynamics following separation.
• Develop strategies for recognising early indicators of emotional hostility and implementing brief interventions.
• Support parents to foster civility, emotional regulation and healthier co-parenting relationships that prioritise children's wellbeing.

Who should attend

This workshop is suitable for professionals who work with separated families, including:

• Family therapists
• Social workers
• Counsellors, Psychologists
• Lawyers
• Family dispute resolution practitioners
• Child and family practitioners
• Other professionals supporting parents and children through separation and conflict

The course is relevant to practitioners working across government, non-government, community, and private practice settings.

Workshop style

Delivered as a highly interactive, facilitated workshop, this training combines presentations of current research with reflective discussion, group learning activities and practical application to professional practice. Participants engage with emerging evidence about hatred and civility in separated families, explore the implications for their work, and collaborate to develop intervention approaches that support families experiencing ongoing conflict. Opportunities are provided for discussion, reflection and application of learning to practice scenarios.

Prior knowledge

There are no formal prerequisites for attending this workshop. However, participants will benefit from experience working with families, parents or children, particularly in contexts involving separation, conflict, co-parenting or family wellbeing.

Register for From Hatred to Civility in Separated Families