HIGHLIGHTS

The parental alienation syndrome (PAS), a disorder that arises primarily in the context of child custody disputes, has been the focus of ever-expanding attention since Dr. Gardner's first publications on the disorder in 1985 and 1986. The first edition of this book, published in 1992, represented a comprehensive statement of his understanding of the disorder at that time. Since then, with further in-depth experience with PAS families, he expanded and refined formidably his knowledge and understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis, manifestations, and treatment of the disorder. This book is a comprehensive statement of his expanded understanding of the PAS.

T>he book, however, does not simply add more case examples and refinements. It includes new considerations not present at the time of the publication of the 1992 volume. Particularly important is the chapter on differentiating between the PAS and bona fide abuse/neglect. In recent years, with the increasing appreciation of the PAS, abusing parents have claimed that the children's alienation from them has nothing to do with real abuses they have perpetrated on the children but has been programmed into them by the other parent. Obviously, the proper differentiation between these two categories of psychiatric disorder is critical. The role of the legal system in the treatment of PAS children has also been expanded, especially with regard to the transitional site program so crucial to implement in severe cases of PAS.

Like its predecessor, this book will be viewed as the definitive work on the subject and is an essential reference for both legal and mental health professionals who work within the field of family and divorce litigation. Furthermore, parents involved in child custody disputes are likely to find this book extremely valuable.