“Parental alienation” is a term used to describe when a child prefers to ally themselves with one parent, often resulting in the other being rejected despite there not being a legitimate justification for the alienation. This often happens due to the influence of the “preferred” parent encouraging the child to reject the other parent. Children may, as a result, choose to comply to avoid upsetting the preferred parent and risking conflict.

Some of the actions the preferred parent may use to sway the child’s opinion of the other parent include painting the other parent as being unloving, talking negatively about them, encouraging the child not to place trust in the parent, or even placing limits on contact. Alienation gives children a dishonest belief that the targeted parent is both dangerous and incapable of a child's affection. This may lead to a child having low self-esteem, loss of confidence, depression, and the child may even end up hating themselves.

This update is provided by the firm Rafool, LLC. We have a strong reputation throughout Florida and we have numerous years of experience representing clients involved in complex divorce cases as well as other family law matters. Should you have any domestic or family issue, we are here to assist you by providing educated advice and skilled, professional advocacy. Call 305-567-9400 to speak with one of a Miami, FL parental alienation lawyer.

This information is provided for educational or informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice.