Parental Alienation

Parental alienation, also known as parental alienation syndrome (PAS), is an occurrence that happens too frequently. It is a disorder that arises mostly from custody disputes, when a child’s feelings for the other parent have been negatively manipulated.

When a couple divorces, the emotional impact severely hits children and can become worse, when one spouse denigrates the other in front of their children with the intent to brainwash. The target is often the non-custodial parent, which in many cases happens to be the father. Another term used for this is ''Divorce Related Malicious Mother Syndrome.'' Children who are subject to this campaign of negativity in turn perpetuate the same behavior when they meet the parent who has been targeted. Typical behavior may include:

• Foul language
• Accusations with no basis
• Animosity
• Resistance or refusal to meet/bond

Recognition of Parental Alienation Syndrome

PAS is an emerging area in both psychology and law. It was first identified and defined in 1985 by Richard A. Gardner, M.D. Delving into history, one can see how a father’s role shifted in the 60’s and 70’s, as women’s roles in the workplace changed. Family dynamics also changed with divorces and single parenting increasing as well. PAS is a byproduct of this shift, although women’s groups and other lobbyists, who don’t recognize father’s rights as a legitimate cause, often contest it. Of course PAS is not gender selective. Rather, it is a psychological process that can be perpetuated by either parent or other family members. With the emergence of father’s rights and more studies done on PAS and its relation to child custody, it is finally being recognized and considered as a factor in child custody cases, where vindictiveness by one parent can indeed brainwash a child’s affection for the other parent.

Unfortunately, PAS can also be manipulated the other way around, unfairly accusing a spouse of defamation to gain the sympathy of the courts and custody rights.

Bailey & Galyen, Protecting Father’s Rights

What can you do when a parent becomes resentful? What can you do when your child starts taking sides? Bailey & Galyen is committed to father’s rights and family law. Our attorneys feel strongly about the alienation of parents and children as a result of PAS, and want to help preserve parental bonds as much as possible. Recognizing the validity of PAS and the role it plays in child custody, our lawyers make an effort to stay on top of the issues, representing fathers, so that they can exercise their parenting rights without any worries or hindrances.

If you are a victim of PAS, let us help you. Get the relief you deserve! Contact us today for a free consultation.