Panel discussion: Children's interests in the event of separation
When parents separate, there can be psychological consequences for children - especially when contact with one parent breaks off. A panel discussion on November 20 showed ways to prevent this. The discussion was held by the umbrella organization for shared parenting "GeCoBi", which was supported by Communicators in its media work for the event.
In the case of a so-called parent-child alienation, the child rejects one parent, which can also happen due to the influence of the other parent. If calls, visits and other attempts at contact with one's own child are unsuccessful after a separation because the custodial parent prevents contact, the children suffer the most. The umbrella organization for shared parenting "GeCoBi" advocates that mediation by a specialist should be arranged at an early stage in the event of separation of parents who disagree about the care of their children. This should help parents to work together in the best interests of their child. Even if disagreements remain, this should not lead to children losing contact with one parent.
A diverse panel
The panel discussion was well attended with around 50 participants. In addition to a child psychologist, the President of the KESB Bern, a professor of family law, a child lawyer and a social worker discussed possible solutions to the problem of parent-child alienation following separation with GeCoBi President Oliver Hunziker. The panel participants focused in particular on alternating custody, which was introduced in Switzerland in 2017. This form of care allows children to live with both parents alternately.