Mediation in School as a Tool for Overcoming the Phenomenon of Parental Alienation towards the Father: Methodology and Challenges Introduction: School as a Neutral Territory in Family Conflict The phenomenon of parental alienation (PRA), or the alienation syndrome of the parent (in international discussion – Parental Alienation, PA), represents a situation where a child, under the influence of one of the parents (usually the one with whom they live), unjustifiably rejects and demonstrates hostility towards the other parent. School, being a key social institution in the life of a child, often involuntarily becomes involved in this conflict, becoming either a field for its escalation or – with a competent approach – a unique platform for its resolution. School mediation, adapted to the specifics of PRA, can become an effective tool for restoring communication, protecting the interests of the child, and preventing the use of the educational system as a tool for pressure on the father. 1. Specificity of Parental Alienation towards the Father and the Role of School PRA towards fathers is often exacerbated by gender stereotypes and established social practices. The mother, as the more frequently residing parent with the child, has greater opportunities to influence the child's daily perception and control over their communication. In this situation, school is at risk of becoming an agent that inadvertently strengthens alienation through: Automatically perceiving the mother as the "main" contact. Unquestionably accepting information from one parent. Inaction when observing signs of PRA in the child (refusal to communicate with the father, demonstrative hostility, paradoxical accusations). Thus, school needs a special protocol of action where mediation is the central element. 2. Model of School Mediation in PRA: Principles and Limitations Classical mediation, based on voluntariness and equality of the parties, requires modifications in the situation of acute PRA. Key princi ... Read more