JOINT CUSTODY AND MEANS TO PREVENT PARENTAL ALIENATION

Abstract

The dissolution of conjugal relationships has had significant impacts on family dynamics, especially regarding child custody disputes and parental alienation practices. In this context, this article investigates the effectiveness of joint custody as a preventive tool against parental alienation, with the general objective of analyzing its applicability and the main challenges faced in its implementation. The research was conducted through bibliographic and documentary review, based on Brazilian legislation and relevant academic studies. The theoretical framework discussed the importance of joint custody in promoting balanced coexistence between children and both parents, highlighting its legal, psychological, and social foundations. The study also addressed the obstacles that hinder its effective application, such as the high level of conflict between parents, cultural resistance to coparenting, and the lack of psychosocial and institutional support. The implications of joint custody in reducing parental conflict and fostering healthier environment for children's development were analyzed. It was found that, although joint custody can be effective in preventing parental alienation, its success depends on parental cooperation, proper monitoring, and support from trained professionals. The study also proposed strategies to overcome these challenges, such as conflict mediation, psychological support for families, and educational campaigns, in addition to highlighting existing gaps in legislation and judicial practices, suggesting improvements to ensure greater effectiveness in the application of the institute.