Parental alienation is a phrase that is often used within a family law setting, but what does it actually mean?
The Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) discusses this in terms of alienating behaviours and defines this as ‘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 a number of reasons why a child may reject, or resist, spending time with one parent post-separation.’
There is no definitive list of behaviours that can contribute towards parental alienation, but Cafcass has listed the following as examples which are regularly exhibited: ‘negative attitudes, behaviours and beliefs that denigrate, demean, vilify, malign, ridicule, or dismiss the child’s other parent. It includes conveying false beliefs or stories to, and withholding positive information from, the child about the other parent together with the relative absence of observable positive attitudes and behaviours (Johnston and Sullivan, 2020).’
Parental alienation can be demonstrated by either one parent, or both parents, and can have a significant and detrimental impact on a child or children. Where one parent regularly discusses the other in negative terms, or encourages a child to spend less time with that parent, this can leave a child feeling very confused and often guilty about upsetting one or both parents.
Where it is suspected that a child is subject to parental alienation, it is important to seek advice from a family law solicitor who can provide assistance and discuss the legal options available to you as soon as possible.
Where it becomes necessary to issue court proceedings, Cafcass can assist in talking to both parents, and to the child or children, to understand the origin of such behaviours and the reasons for this. Cafcass will then report to the court, who will use their professional judgement to determine what is in the best interests of the child, taking into account the inevitable vulnerability of a child, and where a child is old enough to voice their own views, their wishes and feelings on the issue. A final decision will then be made about where the child lives and with whom they have contact.
If you would like further information on Parental Alienation or to find out your options, please contact our family law team on 01608 656 590 for an initial consultation.