Illinois Divorce Lawyer Blog
Quick Question: What is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation refers to a situation where one parent deliberately influences their child to reject, fear, or show hostility toward the other parent. This can happen through manipulation, badmouthing the other parent, or restricting contact between the child and the other parent. The goal of the alienating parent is often to damage the child’s relationship with the other parent, often during or after a divorce or separation.
Parental alienation can have serious emotional and psychological impacts on children. It can distort their understanding of family dynamics and cause long-term issues like anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. It is also harmful to the parent who is being alienated, as it disrupts their relationship with their child.
In some cases, parental alienation can be considered a form of emotional abuse, and courts may intervene to protect the child’s well-being.