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 Washington State, parental alienation is recognized as a serious issue that can impact child custody decisions. The state's family courts prioritize the best interests of the child in custody cases, and evidence of a parent's attempt to manipulate a child against the other parent can be a significant factor in these decisions. Parental alienation may be considered a form of emotional abuse, and courts may respond by adjusting custody and visitation arrangements to protect the child's well-being. This could include reducing the alienating parent's custody or visitation rights or ordering family therapy to address the issue. Washington State law does not have a specific statute that defines parental alienation, but it is addressed under the broader context of the child's best interests and the factors that courts must consider when determining custody arrangements under RCW 26.09.187 and RCW 26.09.191.