Family estrangement is the loss of a previously existing relationship between family members, through physical and/or emotional distancing, often to the extent that there is negligible or no communication between the individuals involved for a prolonged period.
Estrangement may result from the direct interactions between those affected, including traumatic experiences of domestic violence, abuse, neglect, misbehavior on the part of one or both parties, such as repetitive explosive outbursts, behaviors arising from mental illness, personality disorders or substance abuse,[1] or intense marital conflict and disagreements, attachment disorders, differing values and beliefs, disappointment, major life events or change, or poor communication. It may also result from the involvement or interference of a third party.[2][3][4] Recent political and cultural changes have been said to contribute,[5] as well as an "enormous expansion in behaviors described as harmful, traumatising or abusive" that occurred within a very short time frame, i.e., within a single generation.[6] [7]
The estrangement is often unwanted, or considered unsatisfactory, by at least one party involved.[2]
Estrangement with siblings is called sibling estrangement. Estrangement from one parent caused by another parent is known as parental alienation.