Child custody disputes are already stressful, but sometimes the conflict goes beyond disagreements about schedules or decisions. In some cases, one parent may actively try to damage the child’s relationship with the other parent. This behavior is known as parental alienation, and it’s something Texas courts take seriously.
What Is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation happens when one parent tries to turn a child against the other parent. It might be subtle—like making negative comments—or more obvious, such as limiting contact, blocking communication, or pressuring the child to “pick a side.”
For the child, the effects can be long-lasting. Alienation can cause confusion, anxiety, and even harm the child’s ability to maintain healthy relationships in the future.
How Texas Courts Approach Custody
Texas law doesn’t specifically use the phrase “parental alienation,” but the courts do focus on the best interest of the child when making custody decisions. Under the Texas Family Code, judges consider the ability of each parent to encourage a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. (Texas Family Code §153.134)
That means if one parent is found to be interfering with the child’s relationship with the other, it can weigh heavily against them in custody decisions.
Signs the Court Might Notice
Courts don’t just rely on accusations—they look for patterns of behavior. This may include:
- A parent refusing to follow visitation orders
- Negative comments about the other parent in front of the child
- Blocking calls, texts, or video chats
- Pressuring the child to reject time with the other parent
- Coaching the child to make false statements
These actions can reflect poorly on the alienating parent, especially if documented or verified through testimony.
What Parents Can Do
If you believe parental alienation is happening, the best step is to document everything. Keep track of missed visits, communication attempts, and any evidence of interference. Bringing this information to your attorney can help you make a strong case in court.
On the other side, if you’re worried your actions may be misinterpreted, focus on encouraging your child to maintain a healthy bond with their other parent. Texas courts want to see cooperation and a willingness to support the child’s overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Parental alienation isn’t always easy to prove, but Texas judges take it seriously because of its potential harm to children. At the end of the day, custody decisions come down to what supports the child’s emotional and physical health. If alienation is a concern, it’s important to address it early and with the right legal guidance.