What Is Parental Alienation?

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 3 sources

Short answer

Parental alienation describes a situation where one parent's behavior turns a child against the other parent without a legitimate reason, such as constant disparagement or blocking contact. It is not itself a crime in most places, but family courts treat interference with a child's relationship with the other parent as relevant to the child's best interests. Remedies can include therapy, make-up time and, in serious cases, custody changes.

"Parental alienation" is a term used in custody disputes, but it is also contested. Understanding how courts actually handle these claims helps parents respond constructively.

What it describes

Alienating behaviors that courts may consider include:

  • Repeatedly criticizing the other parent to the child
  • Interfering with calls or scheduled parenting time
  • Telling the child the other parent does not love them
  • Involving the child in adult conflict or the court case
  • Rewarding the child for rejecting the other parent
  • Making false allegations

Not every rejection is alienation

Children may resist contact for other reasons: a parent's own behavior, abuse or neglect, high conflict, or a child's developmental stage. Courts and evaluators look at the reasons. Allegations of alienation should not be used to dismiss legitimate safety concerns, especially where domestic violence or abuse is involved.

How courts handle it

Most state custody statutes list each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent as a best-interests factor (Cornell LII). Courts may:

  • Appoint a custody evaluator or guardian ad litem
  • Order family therapy or reunification counseling
  • Award make-up parenting time
  • Hold a parent in contempt for violating orders (Cornell LII)
  • Order co-parenting classes
  • Modify custody in serious, persistent cases

Evidence

  • A log of missed or interfered parenting time
  • Messages showing interference or disparagement
  • Testimony of teachers, counselors and other neutral adults
  • Evaluator reports

If you believe you are being alienated

  1. Keep showing up for every visit and call, even if the child resists.
  2. Stay positive about the other parent in front of your child.
  3. Document calmly; avoid retaliation.
  4. Ask the court to enforce existing orders.

If you are accused

Take the concern seriously, support the child's relationship with the other parent, and avoid discussing the case with the child.

A family lawyer can advise on evidence and remedies. See also how to modify a custody order.

Sources

  1. Cornell Law School LII: Best interests of the child
  2. Cornell Law School LII: Contempt of court
  3. Cornell Law School LII: Visitation

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This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws differ by state and change over time; talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.

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