Does Psychological Literature Contain Studies Verifying Parental Alienation Is Harmful to Children?

There is evidence to suggest that parental alienation can have a negative impact on children’s emotional and psychological well-being. While parental alienation is not recognized as an official psychiatric or psychological diagnosis, some mental health professionals have written about its effects on children and families.

For example, research has found that children who are exposed to parental alienation may experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They may also have difficulty forming healthy relationships and may struggle with emotional regulation. Additionally, children who are caught in the middle of a high-conflict divorce or separation may feel pressured to choose sides or may feel like they have to protect one parent from the other, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and confusion.

Overall, there is a growing body of research on parental alienation and specifically, there is some evidence to suggest that it can be harmful to children’s emotional and psychological well-being. If you believe that your child is experiencing parental alienation, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney in Texas who can help you understand your options and advocate for your child’s best interests.