In mild cases of PAS there is some parental programming, but Contact with the targeted parent is not seriously affected and Contact can generally be maintained without too much difficulty, although the child may appear distressed at the time of transition.
Detecting PAS in the mild stage however is trickier, as the PAS-inducing parent¢s behaviour is generally more subtle and possibly unconscious. The PAS-inducing parent is likely to deny any motivation and/or acts, and states the opposite of what is true. Although statements made by the PAS-inducing parent may be sincerely meant, their view of the targeted parent is compromised and indicated by behaviour.
The following is not an exhaustive list, but other factors in the mild stage would include:
1. When one parent gets a new partner/remarries or has another child.
2. Where little regard is paid to the importance of Contact with the other parent.
3. A lack of value/encouragement regarding Indirect Contact between periods of Direct Contact.
4. Little awareness of the distress that a child may feel if Direct Contact or Indirect Contact (i.e. phone call) is missed.
5. The inability to tolerate the presence of the targeted parent, even at events that are important to the child. (continue)
