bloggggParental alienation has become a very hot topic in recent years. Wikipedia describes it as “ …the process, and the result, of the psychological manipulation of a child into showing unwarranted fear, disrespect, or hostility towards a parent or other family member.”  It is further described as occurring “  almost exclusively in association with family separation or divorce…”  One of the first times parental alienation was brought to public attention was during Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger’s acrimonious divorce.  Mr. Baldwin, in and out of Court proceedings, accused Ms. Basinger of “brainwashing” their daughter Ireland and restricting his time with her.  Ms. Basinger, on the other hand, accused Mr. Baldwin of being unstable and aggressive.  Unfortunately, there are so many layers to parental alienation that it is extraordinarily difficult for the Courts to know how to manage this issue.  Frequently the children are teenagers and if the damage has been done a simple change of custody will rather than resolve the matter will make things worse.  If you are in a situation where you believe your children are being alienated from you, or if you believe you are being unfairly accused of alienation when it is the other parent’s own behavior that is disrupting the relationship between parent and child, call one of our experienced family law attorneys at IANDOLI & EDENS at (908) 879-9499 for guidance through this heartbreaking process.