The Impact of Parental Alienation on Child Custody in Texas

When a child starts pulling away from a parent with no clear reason—and the other parent seems to be behind it—it can be heartbreaking. This is often what people are talking about when they mention parental alienation.

Parental alienation happens when one parent intentionally tries to damage the relationship between the child and the other parent. It can look like subtle comments, constant negativity, or outright blocking contact. And while every situation is different, this kind of behavior can take a real toll—not just on the family dynamic, but especially on the child.

In Texas, courts are focused on what’s best for the child. So when alienation becomes an issue in a custody case, it can influence how things unfold.

Why It Matters in Texas Custody Cases

When deciding custody, Texas courts look at many factors—like the child’s emotional needs, each parent’s involvement, and whether both parents can support a positive relationship with the other.

If one parent is found to be harming that relationship, the court may consider changes to protect the child. In serious cases, this could mean adjusting the parenting schedule or even modifying conservatorship.

Again, every case is different. But if a parent’s actions are hurting the child’s bond with the other parent, it’s something that gets close attention.

How Do You Recognize Parental Alienation?

Here are some signs that may indicate a pattern of alienation:

• The child suddenly refuses to visit or speak to one parent, without a clear reason

• One parent consistently speaks negatively about the other in front of the child

• Important information (like school events or medical issues) is withheld

• The child seems anxious or angry when talking about one parent

• The other parent discourages communication or blocks contact

Of course, not all strained relationships between parents and children are caused by alienation. Kids can have their own feelings and reasons too. But if there’s a pattern, and it’s being encouraged or worsened by the other parent, it’s worth taking a closer look.

What You Can Do If You’re Facing This

If you’re concerned about parental alienation, here are a few general tips:

• Keep detailed notes – Track dates, texts, missed visits, and anything that seems out of the ordinary. Patterns matter. 

• Pay attention to your child’s behavior – Has something shifted suddenly? Are they repeating things that don’t sound like their own thoughts? 

• Stay calm and consistent – Even when things are hard, being steady in your love and support makes a big difference over time. 

• Keep communication open – When possible, keep things documented through email or text, especially if the other parent isn’t cooperating. 

• Talk to a professional – A family counselor or therapist may help both you and your child work through what’s happening.

It’s also helpful to talk to someone who understands the custody process. While every situation is unique, the right support can help you figure out what to focus on and how to move forward.

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

Dealing with parental alienation is hard—plain and simple. It can make you feel helpless and unsure of what to do next. But you're not alone in this.

At Sims & Purzer, we’re here to help families navigate complex parenting issues with compassion and clarity. If you’re noticing troubling changes in your relationship with your child and believe alienation may be a factor, reach out to our team. We’re ready to listen, walk you through your options, and help you protect what matters most.