Parental alienation theory

Parental alienation theory suggests that one parent may intentionally or unintentionally undermine the child's relationship with the other parent, often through negative language or behavior. This can lead the child to develop unwarranted hostility, fear, or avoidance of the targeted parent. The theory is used in child custody disputes to explain situations where a child’s bond with one parent appears damaged without clear justification. While debated, proponents believe alienation harms the child's well-being, emphasizing the importance of healthy, unbiased parent-child relationships, especially during separation or divorce.