What is parental alienation?
Parental alienation occurs when a parent engages in behaviour to disrupt their child’s relationship with their other parent.
Parents who alienate the other parent from their child, whether intentional or not, influence their child to progressively dislike, criticise and avoid spending time with the other parent.
We often see parental alienation occur when their parents are going through separation or during the period after the parents have separated. Parental alienation typically arises in times of high-conflict, where unresolved animosity between the parents permeates their relationships with their children.
The subtle and sometimes subconscious nature of parental alienation often means that the signs are difficult to detect. Potential signs may include
- a child suddenly voicing unjustified hostility towards the targeted parent
- a child exhibiting abrupt shifts in attitude or behaviour without any explanation
- a child parroting negative comments about the targeted parent that seem unusual and beyond their years of comprehension
- the alienating parent may limit the child’s time with the targeted parent without reason or justification
- the alienating parent may make disparaging or denigrating remarks about the targeted parent in the presence of the child
- the alienating parent may falsely accuse the targeted parent of misconduct
Parental alienation can have complex and long-lasting effects on parents, their children and their ongoing relationships.
The subject child in these circumstances often initially feel distressed at feeling torn between their conflicting loyalty to each of their parents.
The ultimate impact of parental alienation on the subject child is that it deprives the child of a meaningful relationship with the alienated parent, which is detrimental to their wellbeing and sense of identity.
Legal considerations
The Federal Circuit and Family Court acknowledge the importance of the child maintaining a meaningful relationship with both of their parents, however the wellbeing and safety of the child remains paramount. If the alienated parent can demonstrate that they do not pose any risk to their child, then the Court will support the reconciliation of a relationship between the child and the alienated parent.
If you feel that you have been subjected to parental alienation, we strongly encourage you to seek legal advice to discover your options moving forward.
For more information or to arrange an appointment to receive legal advice in your matter, contact our office at info@icaalaw.com.au or by phone on (03) 9842 4474.
Important Disclaimer: The content of this posted article is general in nature and for reference only. The content does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be obtained before taking any action in your particular circumstances.
