Monday was Parental Alienation Awareness Day. It is the day to recognize that Parental Alienation exists and hurts children worldwide.
PA usually occurs in divorced families but can also occur in intact families. It is when one parent alienates their children from the other parent. It is a process that occurs over time through bad-mouthing, bashing and can eventually be brainwashing in extreme cases.
The children witness role-modelling of disrespect for the alienated parent and learn to mimic these same behaviours. Children that once had healthy, close relationships with the alienated parent may choose to no longer see them. The more time spent with the alienating parent, the more role-modelling that exists to the point of brainwashing.
Parental alienation is a form of emotional, mental and psychological abuse - child abuse. The alienating parent "uses" the children to hurt the alienated parent.
Professionals in this community need to recognize that this form of abuse exists. From judges who turn their backs on the evidence, to social workers, teachers, principals and senior administrators, psychologists, lawyers, doctors, nurses, police and sports organizations, many become involved in alienating one parent from the other parent by listening to the stories of the alienator.
Any adult dealing with children and youth should be aware of this type of child abuse. As professionals and community members you have a responsibility to protect these children. If you would like to educate yourself to this form of child abuse you can visit www.paawareness.org.
GWEN SHUTTLEWORTH
