Parental alienation, a phenomenon where one parent intentionally undermines or damages a child's relationship with the other parent, is increasingly surfacing in South African family law cases. As high-conflict divorces and custody battles become more complex, courts, attorneys, and mental health professionals are being forced to confront behaviour that is both subtle and destructive. Though not yet explicitly recognised as a stand-alone legal concept in South African legislation, parental alienation is fast becoming a central issue in matters involving the care and contact of minor children. 

Understanding Parental Alienation 

Parental alienation typically occurs when one parent (the alienating parent) manipulates a child into rejecting, fearing, or expressing hostility toward the other parent (the alienated parent), often without legitimate justification. This behaviour can be intentional or unconscious and may include: 

• Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child 
• Preventing communication or contact between the child and the other parent 
• Falsely accusing the other parent of abuse 
• Encouraging the child to believe they were abandoned or unloved 
• Replacing the other parent's role with a new partner

The long-term emotional impact on the child can be severe, leading to depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, trust issues, and a distorted sense of identity. 

The Legal Framework: Where South Africa Stands 

The Children's Act 38 of 2005 is the primary piece of legislation governing the rights and protection of children in South Africa. Section 7 of the Act outlines factors to be considered when determining the best interests of the child, the cornerstone of any family law decision. While the Act does not refer explicitly to "parental alienation," the conduct described above can fall under several considerations, including: 

• The need for a child to maintain a relationship with both parents 
• The effect on the child of any change in circumstances, including removal from a parent 
• The capacity of each parent to provide for the emotional and developmental needs of the child 

The Role of Legal Practitioners 

Where alienation is suspected, early intervention is crucial. Section 33 of the Children's Act encourages parenting plan agreements facilitated by social workers or psychologists that outline each parent's roles and responsibilities. Parenting plans can include provisions for: 

• Contact schedules 
• Therapeutic reunification with the alienated parent 
• Communication boundaries 
• Dispute resolution methods 

Conclusion 

Parental alienation is an insidious form of emotional manipulation that strikes at the heart of the parent-child bond. While not yet codified in South African law, our courts are increasingly alert to its harmful effects. As family law practitioners, we must prioritise the psychological well-being of children, encourage fair and meaningful relationships with both parents and advocate for legal reform that reflects the evolving dynamics of modern families. 

Ultimately, the best interests of the child cannot be served in a courtroom alone, they must be safeguarded in every home, every parenting plan, and every professional interaction that touches their lives. 

Written by Robyn Shepherd, Family Law Specialist, SchoemanLaw Inc