Parental Alienation: Custody Courts and a Controversial Theory

A groundbreaking empirical review shows that parental alienation claims often drive harmful outcomes in custody cases. In particular, when an alienation defense is raised, mothers’ reports of abuse are believed far less often and mothers lose custody at dramatically higher rates. Leading professional groups and even the United Nations (UN) now warn courts to be skeptical of alienation assertions and to prioritize child safety. The study’s findings highlight a pressing need for judicial training, clear policies, and accountability to ensure that custody decisions do not inadvertently punish the very parents trying to protect their children.