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The concept of parental alienation is receiving much media attention, and the approach by Family Courts in England and Wales is still evolving.

Identifying Parental Alienation

Identifying Parental Alienation

Parental Alienation is a form of psychological manipulation by one parent which interferes with, and damages, a childs relationship with the other parent. It does not include the type of alienation that may occur as a result of an estranged parents own prior actions, for example, abuse, violence or prolonged absence from the childs life,

There are several factors which may assist in identifying whether parental alienation is taking place.

First, the alienated parent should have had a normal, healthy and positive relationship with their child previously as subsequent gradual or sudden rejecting behaviours by the child towards that parent can be a sign that dysfunctional behaviour is taking place.

Second, signs of alienating behaviours to be aware of can include:

• Regularly criticising the other parent in the presence of the child.
• Interfering with the quality or quantity of the other parents time with the child.
• Destroying gifts or physical memories from the other parent.
• Confiding in the child about the problems with the past relationship in order to win their loyalty.
• Making the lived-with parents love dependent on loyalty to that parent (making the child choose between parents).
• Excluding the other parent and related extended family from major events in the childs life.
• Changing the childs name.

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