Ching-Chen Chen, a prominent figure in Counselor Education, recently showcased a significant research initiative at the American Counseling Association’s 2025 Annual Conference. Accompanied by her Master’s students—Rachel Dugan, Zihan Gong, and Mikayla Harris—Chen presented a compelling study titled “The Aftermath of Parental Alienation: Coping Styles of Adult Children who Experienced Parental Alienation.”
This research addresses an increasingly pertinent issue within family dynamics: parental alienation, which occurs when one parent manipulates a child to disregard or denigrate the other parent. The implications of such behavior can be profound and long-lasting, affecting not only the immediate family structure but also the emotional and psychological development of children who endure it.
The study emphasizes the need to understand how adult children of parental alienation develop their coping mechanisms and how these strategies impact their emotional health and interpersonal relationships. Through meticulous research, Chen and her team seek to unravel the complexities surrounding parental alienation, particularly focusing on the coping styles that emerge in adulthood as a direct consequence of such familial discord.
The research aims to contribute to the field of mental health counseling by identifying effective intervention strategies that can foster adaptive coping skills and improve emotional regulation among these individuals. By delving into the lived experiences of adult children who have suffered from parental alienation, the study aspires to not only enhance the understanding of their psychological needs but also bolster their resilience in navigating future relationships and life challenges.
Rachel Dugan, Zihan Gong, and Mikayla Harris, as emerging professionals in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, bring fresh perspectives to this nuanced subject. Their involvement underscores the essential role that education and practical experience play in shaping future counselors who are equipped to address the multifaceted issues related to familial conflicts.
Overall, the findings presented at the conference hold valuable implications for both clinical practices and future research in the field of counseling. By addressing the psychological aftermath of parental alienation, this study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of family dynamics, fostering a greater awareness among professionals about the critical importance of supporting adult survivors of these complex emotional experiences. As such, it paves the way for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions that can significantly improve the well-being of those affected.
