Does Evil Underlie Some Cases of Parental Alienation Syndrome? Commentary and a Working Hypothesis

Abstract

Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS) emerges predominantly in the context of child-custody disputes, where one parent (the alienator) systematically denigrates the other parent (the alienated parent) to the child. ​This paper delves into the hypothesis that evil underlies some cases of PAS, examining its implications and the way it corrupts individuals. PAS manifests in varying degrees of severity, from mild to severe, and is characterized by behaviors such as a campaign of denigration, lack of ambivalence, and the spread of animosity to the alienated parent's extended family. The paper argues that PAS constitutes a form of child abuse, significantly harming the child's well-being and relationship with the alienated parent. The alienating parent's actions are seen as embodying evil, driven by narcissistic traits and unresolved attachment traumas, which they project onto the child, creating a harmful cycle of emotional abuse and alienation. The paper also discusses the long-term emotional effects on children, including anxiety, depression, diminished self-esteem, and difficulties in forming intimate relationships. These adverse effects carry over into adulthood, leading to ongoing relational and emotional difficulties. The viewpoint of alienated parents is explored, revealing significant psychosocial trends such as feelings of powerlessness, loss of moral parental authority, and unanticipated relational stress. Suggested psychotherapeutic approaches for targeted parents and affected adults are provided to help manage the complex emotions and relational challenges resulting from PAS. The paper concludes that the behaviors and intentions of PAS-inducing parents align with the concept of evil, as they systematically manipulate and harm the child, leading to irrevocable emotional and spiritual damage.