Understanding Parental Alienation in an Illinois Child Custody Dispute

 Posted on January 07, 2026 in Child Custody

Divorcing or divorced spouses are not typically on great terms with each other. While some divorces are amicable, other cases are filled with hostility. Sadly, children are often the ones who get caught in the crossfire. Sometimes in cases of contested custody, a parent even intentionally attempts to turn a child against the other parent. This is called parental alienation, and it occurs when one parent uses manipulative tactics to hurt the child's relationship with their other parent. 

At The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., we take your parental rights seriously. Our DuPage County, IL family law attorneys can help you fight back against attempts to sabotage your relationship with your child. We will keep in close communication with you throughout your case, and we are available 24/7 to address any questions.

Types of Parental Alienation

Parental alienation is a controversial subject. However, the phenomenon is very real. The term was conceived in 1985 to describe undue influence on a child that causes the child to fear or despise his or her parent.

Some experts suggest that parental alienation can cause an actual psychological disorder. However, this disorder is not recognized by the American Psychological Association. Still, there have been many documented cases where one parent has tried to hurt the child’s relationship with the other parent. This can have major consequences for child custody if left unchecked.

Parental alienation may include actions such as:

• Making up negative stories about the other parent

• Interfering with or impeding the other parent's court-ordered parenting time

• Coaching a child to believe that he or she has been a victim of abuse at the hands of the other parent

• Using threats, intimidation, or manipulation to make a child feel negatively about the other parent

Warning Signs of Parental Alienation

You might notice warning signs of parental alienation in small changes in your child’s behavior. A child may start to repeat negative comments about one parent that sound more like the other parent’s words than their own. The child might insist that these opinions are their own, even though they cannot give clear reasons why they feel that way. You may also notice that normal disagreements are turned into claims that you are mean or unsafe.

Another warning sign is when the other parent limits your contact. They may "forget" to pass along messages or school notices. They may schedule fun activities during your parenting time so that your child feels guilty about seeing you. The child may seem anxious or upset before or after visits, as if they must "choose sides." Over time, these shifts can weaken the trust and comfort your child feels with you.

How Parental Alienation Impacts Custody Rights in 2026

Illinois doesn’t use the term "parental alienation" in custody laws. However, the judge can consider alienation in custody rulings. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act lists several factors that the courts will consider during custody proceedings. One important factor is how willing and able each parent is to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. In other words, the court wants to see that you will help your child stay close to both parents. In extreme cases, parental alienation could be a reason to restrict one parent’s access to the child.

Moreover, the psychological manipulation behind parental alienation can cause the child significant distress. If the judge thinks that the child’s best interests are at risk, the existing custody order could be amended.

Can I Get Make-Up Parenting Time Due To Parental Alienation?

Make-up parenting time is sometimes ordered by the courts when one parent is unfairly deprived of time with their child. If your child has refused to see you due to parental alienation, you could request make-up time to remedy the situation. This may include additional weekends, extended holidays, or longer summer time.

If you have lost out on valuable parenting time, be sure to keep records of each time it happens. Write down dates, times, and what happened. Save text messages, emails, and notes from school-related meetings and phone calls that demonstrate a pattern. This documentation can help your attorney show the court how often your time has been blocked or undermined. Strong documentation also shows that you are trying to stay involved in your child’s life.

Requesting a Custody Modification Due to Parental Alienation

Serious parental alienation can be a reason to ask the court to change a parenting plan or custody arrangement. Illinois courts look at what is in the child’s best interests. If one parent is harming the child’s relationship with the other parent, the court may decide that a different arrangement is needed.

To request a modification, you generally must show that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the last order. For example, your attorney could argue that you have seen your child less than you were supposed to because of your ex’s actions. The court may also consider input from the child’s therapist or school if they have seen the impact of the alienation. In any case, the goal is to protect the child from ongoing conflict and emotional pressure.

Can Parental Alienation Be Punished by a Court?

Parental alienation can lead to being found in contempt of court if it involves violating a judge’s orders. However, the burden is on you to prove that your ex violated the custody order. You should closely review your parenting plan with an attorney to identify the specific violation. For instance, witness testimony can show that your ex tried to interfere with your scheduled parenting time by turning your child against you.

Courts usually try to correct the behavior before using the most severe penalties. A judge might warn the parent, order counseling, or require both parents to attend classes about co-parenting. However, if the alienating behavior continues, the court has the power to issue stronger sanctions. These steps are meant to encourage parents to follow the plan and put the child first.

Contact a Wheaton, IL Parenting Time Lawyer

If your child's other parent has falsely accused you of domestic violence or tries to obstruct your relationship with your child, you need a strong legal advocate on your side. Contact a DuPage County, IL child custody attorney from The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C. for more information. Call us at 630-462-9500 to arrange your consultation today.