After a Divorce, emotions often run high. But amidst all the legal documents and emotional adjustment, one issue tends to slip under the radar: parental alienation. It’s something many parents may not recognise at first, but its effects can be long-lasting, especially on children.
Whether you’re newly separated or in the thick of post-divorce arrangements, it’s important to understand how this can unfold and how to spot the signs.
What Is Considered Parental Alienation?
It’s not always easy to pinpoint, especially since the behaviour can look like normal post-divorce tension. But generally, what is considered parental alienation includes:
- Speaking badly about the other parent in front of the child
- Limiting contact or access without a valid reason
- Encouraging the child to spy, lie, or withhold information
- Suggesting the other parent doesn’t love the child
- Rewarding the child for rejecting the other parent
If a child is showing sudden hostility without a justifiable cause, especially after a previously healthy relationship, this may be more than just adjustment stress.
Parental Alienation Syndrome And Its Effects
Parental alienation syndrome refers to a situation where a child becomes emotionally aligned with one parent and unjustifiably rejects the other. While it’s not formally recognised under Singapore law or clinical diagnostic guides, it’s a term used to explain the deep emotional and behavioural shift that can occur in children who’ve been influenced, consciously or unconsciously, by one parent against the other.
This isn’t just the usual fallout from a Divorce. It’s often the result of consistent negative messaging and manipulation, and the emotional toll on both parent and child can be long-lasting.
Common Behaviours That Lead To Parental Alienation Syndrome
- Repeated badmouthing of the other parent in the child’s presence
- Telling the child that the other parent doesn’t love or care about them
- Blaming the other parent for all problems post-divorce
- Interfering with visitation schedules or sabotaging communication
- Making the child feel guilty for showing affection to the alienated parent
Emotional And Psychological Effects On The Child
- Confusion and emotional distress – especially when their feelings conflict with what they’re told
- Loss of trust – they may start doubting their own memories and emotions
- Increased anxiety and low self-esteem – feeling like they must “choose sides”
- Depression or anger – often directed inward or at the alienated parent
- Struggles in future relationships – due to unresolved attachment issues and mistrust
Effects On The Alienated Parent
- Emotional devastation – being shut out of a child’s life without a valid cause
- Feelings of helplessness and despair – especially when efforts to reconnect are rejected
- Anxiety and depression – from the breakdown of what was once a loving relationship
- Legal stress – having to fight for access or defend against false claims in Court
Impact On Wider Family Dynamics
- Grandparents and relatives may be cut off from the child due to association with the alienated parent
- Siblings can be pulled into the conflict, choosing sides or suffering emotionally themselves
- Family events become tense or divided, affecting stability and bonding
Legal And Therapeutic Interventions In Singapore
In Singapore, while parental alienation syndrome isn’t a standalone legal category, the Family Justice Courts take these behaviours seriously when deciding on custody and care arrangements. Judges may order counselling, supervised visitation, or even a change in custody if they believe one parent is emotionally harming the child.
At the same time, therapeutic support is crucial. Children may need professional help to untangle the messages they’ve received. Parents, too, may benefit from counselling to rebuild trust and maintain a consistent, healthy presence in the child’s life.
Conclusion About Parental Alienation In Singapore
Parental alienation is more than just a messy post-divorce disagreement. It can slowly unravel the parent-child bond, leaving emotional wounds that last well into adulthood. When it turns into severe parental alienation, the effects are often harder to reverse and much more damaging to everyone involved.
Many parents also wonder—is parental alienation a crime? While it’s not listed as a criminal offence in Singapore, it becomes a legal issue when it violates access orders or amounts to emotional harm. The Court does take these matters seriously, especially when a child’s emotional wellbeing is at stake.
For the best divorce lawyer in Singapore, contact Tembusu Law today for a free consultation and to see how we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parental Alienation In Singapore
What Is Considered Parental Alienation In Singapore?
Behaviours like badmouthing the other parent, limiting access, or emotionally manipulating the child against the other parent may be considered parental alienation.
Is Parental Alienation Illegal In Singapore?
While not a criminal offence on its own, it can lead to legal consequences if it breaches custody or access orders issued by the Court.
How Can I Prove Parental Alienation In Court?
Gather documentation, such as messages, eyewitness accounts, and changes in the child’s behaviour. Professional assessments from counsellors or psychologists can also help.
Can The Court Change Custody Due To Parental Alienation?
Yes. If the Court finds that a parent is harming the child’s relationship with the other parent, it may revise custody or access arrangements.
What Are The Symptoms Of Parental Alienation In A Child?
Signs include unjustified hatred, sudden rejection, parroting negative opinions, and showing no guilt about cutting off the alienated parent.
