Parental Alienation: What Is It and How to Prevent It

Parental alienation occurs when one parent attempts to create a relationship with their children that excludes the other parent from their lives. When done effectively, the children get to a point where they refuse visitation or any contact at all with the alienated parent and express only negative feelings about them. Parental alienation is very different from when children no longer want to maintain contact with a parent who physically, emotionally, or sexually abused them. In alienation cases, the alienated parent is capable and loving, and only rejected because the other parent wishes to destroy any relationship the children may have with him or her.

Psychologists report that when divorcing couples act acrimoniously to each other and involve their children in the divorce process, their children can suffer severe, long-lasting, emotional harm. 

How to Prevent Parental Alienation 

Children should not be used to gain information about the target parent. If a parent is willing to drag their children into the divorce process, it is apparent that parent is more concerned with their agenda than the children’s well-being. If a child is used as a pawn, it may be a time to call in mediators or psychologists to help the alienating parent understand the harm they are inflicting on the children.

If you are involved in a custody battle, and you believe you are the target of parental alienation, our firm will work diligently on your behalf to bring balance back to your relationships. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.