April 25th is considered “International Parent-Child Alienation Day”. This is not a day of remembrance officially recognized by states or large international organizations. Rather, it was launched by those affected and activists to draw attention to a sensitive and often hidden topic.
For many of those affected, this day has a special meaning. It creates visibility for a situation that can be associated with great emotional stress for both children and parents. At the same time, the topic is technically controversial. Terms such as “Parental Alienation Syndrome” are evaluated differently in psychology and family law. While some experts recognize problematic dynamics, others warn against simplistic explanations of complex family conflicts.
Nevertheless, it can make sense to draw attention to such a day. Conflicts after separation often take place in private spaces and often remain invisible to those around them. When a child loses contact with a parent, it often happens gradually. A day of action can help to initiate discussions early on and seek support before conflicts become more severe.
The focus should always be on the well-being of the child. Children must not get into loyalty conflicts, but should be able to experience stable and secure relationships, as far as this is possible in their individual situation.
Cultural contributions also take up the topic. The multi-award-winning film “Because you belong to me” (2019) impressively shows how alienation can develop and what consequences it has for those affected – without hastily assigning blame. Particularly noteworthy: the film ends on a conciliatory note, thus providing a hopeful conclusion. The DVD can be borrowed free of charge from the Association for Men’s Issues in Schaan. Further information is available online at www.mänfragen.li.
The central message remains clear and urgent: children need reliable relationships with both parents – and should not be drawn into conflicts. Or in short: Put the child at the center – not the conflict. We are there to support men, families and couples – including in a personal conversation or over a good coffee in the men’s café.
