Frequently Asked Questions

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Parental Alienation (PA) is the outcome of one parent (the alienating parent) using Parental Alienating Behaviours (PABs) to damage the relationship between their child and the child’s other parent (the targeted parent). 

Yes, Coercive control is at the heart of parental alienating behaviours. Learn more here.

No, there are many processes, mechanisms of influence and alienating tactics that can be used. Learn more about them here and here.

Yes, there is mild, moderate and severe levels of alienation. All levels require intervention. Learn more here.

Some alienating tactics used by alienating parents (but not limited to):

* Denigration associated with the targeted parent

* Vilification of the targeted parent

* Interference with time spent with the targeted parent

* Eradication of the targeted parent from the child’s life

* Information gatekeeping

* Interrogation of the alienated child

* Damage to the loving connection with the targeted parent

* Inappropriate disclosure about the targeted parent

* Encouraging child defiance

* Forcing loyalty to the alienating parent

* Encouraging an unhealthy alliance

* Emotional manipulation

* Utilising outside forces

(Haines, Matthewson and Turnbull, 2020)

Learn more about each of these tactics in detail here

No. Family members who use parental alienating behaviours against children can include mothers, fathers, step-parents, siblings, grandparents (and other extended family members), and even non-family members. 

There are multiple law acts concerning family violence, coercive control and child abuse.

At EMMM, we have a petition to have parental alienating behaviours clearly defined and legislated against. You can read and sign the petition here. Parental alienating behaviours are child abuse and family violence.

Be sure to check back.