Parental alienation is a social dynamic which occurs most often during a divorce or separation. During this stressful time in a family’s life, one parent can become so angry or fearful, that they begin a conscious or unconscious campaign of alienation against the other parent. The alienation can be as subtle as making a passing derogatory comment about the other parent or a full-blown campaign to turn the child(ren) against the other parent.
Parents are not the only individuals who can contribute to the alienation of a child. Step-parents, grandparents, family friends, and even attorneys and therapists can cause children to feel that they must “pick a side” or “choose a parent.”
When a child experiences alienation, they may not wish to speak with or visit with the other parent. They may harbor feelings of anger or sadness directed at the other parent. They may begin to act out towards the other parent.