Richard B. Gardner

Richard B. Gardner was an American psychiatrist and psychoanalyst known for his work in child psychology and the legal system. He is best recognized for formulating the concept of "Parental Alienation Syndrome" (PAS), which describes a situation where a child becomes estranged from one parent due to the other parent's influence. Gardner's ideas have sparked considerable debate in both mental health and legal communities regarding custody disputes and the impacts of parental conflict on children. His work has contributed to discussions on the psychological effects of divorce and the importance of healthy parent-child relationships.