How to Handle Instances of Parental Alienation

 Posted on December 31, 2025 in Child Custody

Dealing with a child custody dispute can be extremely stressful. After all, your child’s well-being could be on the line, and so, too, could your relationship with him or her. The conflict involved in these disputes can be exacerbated when one parent thinks the other is intentionally trying to cut him or her out of the child’s life. In some instances, this could be considered parental alienation.

At The Law Office of Linda Risinger, we have over 30 years of experience representing Texas families in intense legal cases. Our Collin County, TX child custody lawyers can help you identify parental alienation and fight to protect your rights.

The Basics of Parental Alienation in 2026

In its most basic terms, parental alienation occurs when one parent actively manipulates a child in hopes of creating distance between that child and the other parent. Oftentimes, this manipulation is aimed at obtaining a more restrictive child custody order that further cuts the other parent out of the child’s life.

Pushing back against parental alienation isn’t just about fighting with your ex. Studies have shown that parental alienation can have a long-lasting negative impact on a child’s mental health. According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, alienated children may suffer from a lack of self-esteem and a greater risk of mental health disorders like depression.

What Does Parental Alienation Look Like?

Parental alienation can take many forms, and its impact can be serious. Sometimes it starts small, such as one parent failing to share information about a child’s school events or doctor appointments. In more severe cases, a parent may influence a child to believe the other parent abused or neglected them. This can happen by repeating false stories until the child begins to believe they are true.

More often, parental alienation shows up in everyday behavior. One parent may speak negatively about the other parent in front of the child. Another common tactic is planning fun events during the other parent’s scheduled parenting time. This puts the other parent in a difficult position. They must either give up their time with the child or move forward with the visit and risk the child feeling upset or resentful.

How Can You Spot Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation can be difficult to spot. Still, a sudden change in your child’s behavior can be a warning sign. If your child starts acting differently for no clear reason, pay close attention to what they say and how they act.

Children affected by parental alienation often criticize one parent again and again, even when there is no real reason. These negative views usually come from what the other parent has said to them over time. At the same time, the child may strongly defend the parent who is influencing them. This loyalty can extend to that parent’s family members. Meanwhile, the criticism of the other parent may also spread to that parent’s relatives.

You should also watch for your child repeating details that only the other parent would know. False accusations can be another red flag. For example, when a child says something like, "You don’t even love me," it may be a sign that someone else has planted that idea in their mind.

How to Handle Parental Alienation

To protect your child and your relationship with him or her, you may need to ask the court to change your child custody order. To do this successfully, you must show evidence explaining why the change is in your child’s best interests (Texas Family Code Sec. 153.002).

Before going to court, it may be possible to reach an agreement with your child’s other parent. This can be difficult, especially when emotions are high. Still, a mental health professional who has evaluated your child may be able to help both parents better understand what the child needs. Reunification therapy may also help repair your relationship with your child, and can make it easier for the other parent to see why your relationship matters.

Even if you try to resolve the issue outside of court, it is important to be prepared. You will need evidence that supports your request and legal arguments that could persuade a judge if the case ends up in court. That means understanding the law, how it applies to your situation, and what steps you can take to gather helpful evidence. With assistance from a skilled family law attorney, you can work toward an outcome that protects both your child and your relationship with him or her.

Contact a Collin County, TX Child Custody Attorney

If your child has turned against you and you believe that parental alienation may be the reason, a Frisco, TX family lawyer can help. Call 972-294-6533 for a free consultation with The Law Office of Linda Risinger today. We will work hard to ensure that your parental rights are fully protected, along with the best interests of your children.