Parental alienation is a parent’s use of psychological manipulation to turn a child or children against the other parent. This toxic behavior is damaging and may cause long term problems for the child as well as the parents. Courts take evidence of parental alienation seriously and may consider it in making or modifying child custody arrangements.
In Mississippi, parental alienation is not codified as a specific term in state statutes, but the concept is recognized by the courts as a factor that can impact child custody decisions. Mississippi family courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody determinations, and evidence of a parent's attempt to manipulate a child against the other parent can be considered a serious issue. Such behavior may be viewed as detrimental to the child's emotional and psychological well-being. If a court finds that one parent is guilty of parental alienation, it may result in a modification of custody or visitation rights to protect the child's welfare. The court may also order family therapy or parenting classes to address the issue. It's important for any parent facing this situation to consult with an attorney who can provide guidance on how to address parental alienation in the context of Mississippi family law.