Work

Parental Alienation: Custody Courts and a Controversial Theory

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: 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.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15702932

Author: Oliveira D., M. Jorge

Institution: Flinders University

Language: English

Topic: Intimate Partner and Family Violence

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W6893284090

FWCI:

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