National Parental Alienation Day

A happy child embracing their parents, sun shining in a beautiful park setting, wearing casual clothing and holding colorful balloons.. — National parental alienation day illustration

Hey there! Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we uncover the fascinating internet history behind national days. Today, we're diving into National Parental Alienation Day!

When is Parental Alienation Day?

It's national parental alienation day on the 25th April.

The Origins of National Parental Alienation Day

On this day, we shine a light on an issue that affects many families and children around the world -- parental alienation. National Parental Alienation Day serves as a reminder to recognize and address the harmful consequences of this phenomenon.

Originally, this day emerged as an internet-based initiative to raise awareness about parental alienation, a situation where a child is manipulated or influenced to reject or distance themselves from one of their parents without any valid justification. It often occurs during or after a divorce or separation when one parent deliberately undermines the relationship between the child and the other parent.

DSPAD, the Dads Against Discrimination campaign group, played a significant role in promoting National Parental Alienation Day. They recognized the need for society to recognize and take action against parental alienation. By raising awareness and providing resources, they hope to make a difference in the lives of both parents and the children affected by this distressing situation.

How to Observe National Parental Alienation Day

On National Parental Alienation Day, individuals and organizations share stories, articles, and resources to educate others about the negative impact of parental alienation. The day can serve as an opportunity to provide support to those experiencing or recovering from this situation, ensuring that awareness and understanding continue to spread.

Did You Know?

Parental alienation is not just limited to one gender or one parent. It can occur to both mothers and fathers, and even stepparents who become alienated from their stepchildren. Recognizing the issue and advocating for healthy parent-child relationships are crucial for the well-being of all parties involved.

History behind the term 'Parental Alienation'

1985

The Concept

In 1985, child psychiatrist Richard A. Gardner coined the term 'parental alienation' to describe a phenomenon where one parent intentionally manipulates a child to reject or fear the other parent. Gardner observed that this alienation often occurred in high-conflict divorces or custody battles, causing severe emotional distress to the child and damaging the parent-child relationship.

1985

Introduction of the term

The term 'parental alienation' was first introduced by child psychiatrist Richard A. Gardner in 1985. He used this term to describe a process where one parent purposefully turns their child against the other parent during divorce or custody disputes. Gardner believed that this behavior was a form of psychological manipulation and acknowledged it as a syndrome called 'Parental Alienation Syndrome' (PAS).

1985

Introduction of the term 'Parental Alienation'

The term 'Parental Alienation' was first introduced by child psychiatrist Dr. Richard A. Gardner in 1985. Dr. Gardner used the term to describe a phenomenon where one parent may intentionally or unintentionally manipulate their child's feelings and attitudes towards the other parent in a way that creates parental alienation syndrome (PAS). This term gained recognition in the field of child custody cases and family law disputes.

1985

Introduction of the term

The term 'parental alienation' was first introduced by child psychiatrist Dr. Richard A. Gardner in 1985. He used this term to describe a situation where one parent intentionally turns a child against the other parent during divorce or separation proceedings. Dr. Gardner observed that children affected by parental alienation often develop negative attitudes and behaviors towards the targeted parent.

1990

Recognition of Parental Alienation Syndrome

In 1990, Dr. Richard A. Gardner expanded on his original concept and coined the term 'Parental Alienation Syndrome' (PAS). He defined PAS as a diagnostic category involving the psychological manipulation of a child by one parent against the other parent without any justifiable cause. Gardner proposed this concept as a syndrome with specific symptoms and suggested that it should be recognized in legal and mental health professionals.

1989

Recognition and Research

By 1989, 'parental alienation' gained recognition among professionals involved in family law and psychology. It was acknowledged as a serious issue impacting children and parents during divorce and custody disputes. Researchers began studying the effects of parental alienation on the well-being of children, providing valuable insight into its psychological and emotional consequences.

1990

Recognition in the legal field

In the 1990s, 'parental alienation' started gaining recognition in the legal field. Some courts began considering parental alienation when making custody decisions, taking into account the negative effects it could have on the child's relationship with both parents. This recognition led to an increased understanding and awareness of the concept.

1990

Formation of Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS)

In 1990, Dr. Richard A. Gardner further developed the concept of Parental Alienation by formalizing it as Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS). According to Gardner, PAS is a specific form of psychological manipulation in which a child unjustifiably rejects one parent due to the influence of the other parent. This controversial concept gained both support and criticism within the fields of psychology and law.

1993

Criticism and Controversy

In the early 1990s, the concept of Parental Alienation Syndrome began to face criticism from various quarters. Some professionals questioned the scientific basis of PAS and argued that it lacked empirical evidence. The controversy surrounding PAS led to debates regarding its inclusion as a legitimate diagnosis in legal and psychological settings.

2009

Inclusion in the DSM-5

In 2009, the term 'parental alienation' was not included as an official diagnosis in the widely used Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, the American Psychiatric Association did acknowledge that 'parental alienation' was a topic of debate and controversy within the mental health community. This acknowledgment further highlighted the importance of parental alienation in the field.

1990s

Legal Implications

During the 1990s, parental alienation started to have legal implications in child custody cases. Some courts began considering parental alienation as a factor when deciding custody arrangements and visitation rights. This acknowledgment of parental alienation in the legal system raised awareness about the importance of preserving healthy parent-child relationships and safeguarding children from emotional manipulation.

2000s

Growing recognition and legal implications

During the 2000s, the term 'Parental Alienation' started gaining more recognition and attention in family court proceedings. Many family law professionals, psychologists, and parental rights activists began advocating for the recognition of Parental Alienation Syndrome as a valid concern in child custody disputes. Some jurisdictions started considering PAS as a relevant factor when making custody determinations.

2001

Parental Alienation receives recognition

Although the concept of Parental Alienation Syndrome remained controversial, the broader term 'parental alienation' gained recognition as a phenomenon that can harm children during divorce or custody disputes. Mental health professionals, legal experts, and family court practitioners acknowledged the negative effects of parental alienation on children's well-being and the importance of addressing it within the legal system.

2013

Controversies and debates

The concept of Parental Alienation continues to be a subject of debates and controversies. While some professionals argue that PAS should be recognized as a psychological disorder and a form of child abuse, others criticize it for being misused as a tool for abusive parents to gain custody or harass the other parent. The complex and emotionally charged nature of Parental Alienation has led to ongoing discussions within the legal and psychological communities.

2000s

Controversy and Criticism

In the 2000s, parental alienation became a topic of intense debate amidst concerns about its misuse and misapplication in court. Critics argued that the concept could be exploited to cover up cases of genuine abuse or demean one parent unfairly. The complexity of identifying genuine parental alienation and distinguishing it from other relationship difficulties further fueled the controversy surrounding the term.

2010

Evolution of terminology

As the understanding of 'parental alienation' evolved, professionals and experts recognized the need for more neutral terminology. The term 'parental alienation' was sometimes criticized for being polarizing and potentially stigmatizing. As a result, alternative terms such as 'parental alienation syndrome' (PAS) or 'child alignment' were proposed to describe similar dynamics while avoiding potential bias or controversy.

2013

Inclusion in the DSM-5 and ICD-11

In 2013, Parental Alienation was not included as a separate disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). However, both manuals recognized the significance of the issue by including related terms such as 'child affected by parental relationship distress' in the DSM-5 and 'problems related to the relationship with a parent' in the ICD-11.

2010s

Continued Awareness and Support

In the 2010s, awareness and understanding of parental alienation continued to grow. Support groups, organizations, and mental health professionals dedicated themselves to educating the public, supporting affected families, and advocating for the well-being of children. Efforts were made to strike a balance between addressing parental alienation and safeguarding against false accusations, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in legal and mental health contexts.

Present

Ongoing research and debate

Currently, 'parental alienation' continues to be an area of ongoing research, debate, and legal consideration. Many mental health professionals and legal experts recognize the existence and impact of parental alienation, while others question its validity as a syndrome. Regardless, the concept of parental alienation has provided a framework for understanding the dynamics that can occur during contentious separations and divorces, emphasizing the importance of supporting healthy parent-child relationships.