There are degrees of conflict in every divorce, some very minor but others that have a severe and far-reaching impact. Conflict and anger at its extreme can result in Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS). This occurs when one parent consciously or unconsciously sabotages the relationship between their children and their other parent. This is far beyond an occasional angry outburst or a disparaging remark. It involves relentless and inflated outbursts and comments that are designed to turn a child against a parent. Family courts are just now beginning to recognize this behavior in a spouse' fitness as a parent. This is a complex and multi-faceted issue and in this article I will deal with one aspect that offers both the courts and involved parents some positive advantages-mediation.
Mediation offers some real advantages in dealing with Parental Alienation Syndrome. First and perhaps foremost is the ability of a Mediator to recognize the syndrome in its initial stages and take steps to mitigate its development. Being able to spend time with parents and learn about their parenting styles and interaction with each other and their children allows a Mediator to see the first signs of unreasonable conduct. All too often a lawyer can align themselves with one parent and lose their perspective. A Mediator is trained and actively strives for neutrality. When parents make accusations against each other a skilled Mediator can evaluate credibility. This comes from their extensive exposure to both parents where a lawyer may have this contact with only the parent that hires them.
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