Parental alienation is the process by which one parent destroys the relationship of the child with the other parent. While universally recognized as a problem by the courts, it is also a highly controversial subject with passionate arguments on both sides. Ultimately, those who created the term “parental alienation” wanted it to be a universally recognized disorder called “parental alienation syndrome” or PAS. Mental health authorities, however, refused to recognize it. Why? In this article, the Danville, IN, child custody lawyer, Chris Arrington, will answer that question.
Parental alienation is not universally recognized
While most acknowledge that one parent can alienate a child from the other parent, parental alienation itself is not universally recognized by organizations like the American Medical Association or the American Psychiatric Association. Both claim there is a lack of sufficient data to include it in the DSM. Nonetheless, addressing alienating behaviors can be the topic of therapy, and reunification therapy addresses alienation specifically.
Concerns regarding misuse and false allegations
Critics of PAS and parental alienation in general fear that claims of parental alienation can be weaponized in custody disputes to deflect attention from legitimate claims of child abuse and domestic violence. This is a serious concern for both mental health professionals and the courts, as it can result in a child being placed in an abusive environment.
Ultimately, if one parent believes the other is unfit, they should be able to voice that concern with the court without fear that the other parent is claiming alienation. In other words, the truth of the parents’ accusations determines whether or not it is alienating.
Gender bias and misogyny
The progenitor of PAS, Richard Gardner, has faced substantial scrutiny for his methodology and perspective. In one case, he advocated against mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse to prevent the abused child from ruminating on the mistreatment. He further claimed that pedophilia was “an accepted practice,” and had “species survival value.”
Gardner was also under the impression that parental alienation was rampant and the allegations were universally false, mostly made by mothers, and targeted fathers specifically.
What do the courts say?
The courts recognize that parental alienation occurs, but require substantial proof to move forward with that claim. Proof includes social media posts, text messages, emails, and witness testimony to establish that the parent has engaged in a “systematic campaign” to destroy the child’s relationship with the other parent. In other words, it is hard to prove.
What should I do if I’m the target of parental alienation?
You should consider having a Guardian ad Litem intervene on your behalf to assess the situation and make a report to the court. If you believe the allegations are false and that there’s a pattern of alienation, the Guardian ad Litem can provide an objective view on the matter.
Talk to a Danville, IN, Child Custody Lawyer Today
Chris Arrington represents the interests of parents in child custody disputes. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your next steps right away.