What is parental alienation?

Parental Alienation most commonly occurs during divorce or separation procedures. There is no fixed or single definition of parental alienation, rather it is the concept of a child rejecting a parent with whom they had a previously positive relationship, for no obvious reason.

What are alienating behaviours?

The term alienating behaviours describes circumstances where there is an ongoing pattern of negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours of one parent (or carer) that have the potential or expressed intent to undermine or obstruct the child’s relationship with the other parent.

It is one of several reasons why a child may reject or resist spending time with one parent post-separation.

Both men and women can demonstrate alienating behaviours. The set of strategies includes denying the child access, criticising, encouraging disrespect, or forcing the child to cut ties with the other parent.

Alienating behaviours often include:

• Talking negatively or telling lies about the other parent
• Encouraging the child to be disrespectful or defiant towards the other parent
• Blaming the other parent for the breakup
• Manipulating a child to make them believe the other parent is untrustworthy or dangerous

Accusations can be mild or severe. Either way, they distort the child’s view of the alienated parent. If parental alienation goes unchallenged, it could result in a full breakdown of the relationship. However, a child rejecting a parent on reasonable grounds does not constitute alienation.

It is important to remember that just because a child shows typical behaviours, it’s not automatically because they have been alienated.

Alienation and the law

There is no provision in UK law for the Courts to specifically deal with parental alienation, but the law is broad enough to allow the Court to determine the suitable remedy on a case-by-case basis. That said, family courts can and will step in when a child’s welfare suffers as a result. There’s a presumption that it’s in a child’s best interest to have a positive relationship with both parents, unless there are safeguarding issues.

How We Can Help

If you feel that your child has been subject to this kind of behaviour, or that you are being alienated as a parent, our experienced family and matrimonial solicitor team can help. Contact us today.