Alienation syndrome

Alienation syndrome – refers to a psychological condition characterized by the emotional distancing or estrangement of an
individual from their social environment, often as a result of social, familial, or
cultural disruptions. The condition is commonly marked by feelings of isolation,
rejection, and disconnection, which can manifest in an individual's inability or
unwillingness to form meaningful relationships or to engage with the broader
societal framework. This syndrome can be seen in both individual and collective
contexts, including familial alienation (e.g., parent-child estrangement), societal
alienation (e.g., marginalization of specific groups), and existential alienation
(e.g., feelings of meaninglessness or detachment from the world). Alienation can
lead to various psychological disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and a
diminished sense of self-worth, and often requires therapeutic intervention to
reintegrate individuals into their communities and restore their emotional well-
being.

Sources:

Bentley, С., & Matthewson, M. (2021). The impact of parental alienating behaviours on the mental health of adults exposed in childhood. Psychiatry Research, 300, 113907. . Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/6frHY

Warshak, R. (2022). New research on the science of parental alienation. Institute for Family Studies.. Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/hXU3f

Meier, J. S. (2013). Alienation Syndrome and Parental Alienation: A Research Review. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence. Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/vLjHK