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 Nebraska, parental alienation is not explicitly defined by statute, but the state's family courts recognize the potential harm it can cause to a child's emotional well-being. Nebraska courts make child custody decisions based on the best interests of the child, as outlined in Nebraska Revised Statute 43-2923. Factors considered include the emotional ties between the child and each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs, and the child's adjustment to home, school, and community. If a court finds evidence of parental alienation, it may view this as contrary to the child's best interests. This behavior could influence the court's decision in establishing or modifying custody and visitation arrangements. The court may order interventions such as family therapy or adjust custody arrangements to protect the child's emotional health and maintain a healthy relationship with both parents.