Questioning the Scientific Validity of the Parental Alienation Label in Abuse Cases

Date

2021

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Routledge

Abstract

Increasing use of this concept in family courts has led at times to placement of children with abusive or violent parents, damage to the lives of preferred parents, and the use of treatments that have not been shown to be safe or effective. The 13 chapters cover the history and theory of "parental alienation" principles and practices. Methodological and research issues are considered, and diagnostic and treatment methods associated with "parental alienation" beliefs as well as those recommended by research and ethical evidence are analyzed. The connections of "parental alienation" with gender and domestic violence issues are discussed as are the experiences of individuals who have experienced "parental alienation" treatments. The book argues that "parental alienation" principles and practices should be avoided by family courts, in the best interests of children in custody disputes. This book will be useful reading for lawyers, judges, children’s services workers including social workers, child protection court workers, and mental health professionals involved in child custody decisions. (Publisher Abstract)

Description

Keywords

parental alienation, family courts, custody disputes, placement

Citation

Meier, J. (2021). Questioning the Scientific Validity of the Parental Alienation Label in Abuse Cases. Routledge.

DOI