Alcohol abuse and family violence

Abstract

In spite of some debate over the long-term effects of parental alcoholism, there is generally consensus that the quality of children's lives is significantly affected by the addicted family of origin, and that a complex interaction of biological, experiential and socio-cultural forces are involved in individual development, identity and behaviour. Gender, family history, rules, roles, rituals, resources and patterns of communication all contribute to this outcome, as well as family networks, and the diversity of groupings and communities they function in (Wolin, 1982; Johnson & Bennett, 1988; Bradshaw, 1988). According to one definition, an Adult Child of an Alcoholic is any adult who comes from a family where alcohol abuse was a primary and central issue, and Ackerman (1987) believes that this group comprises one of the largest unrecognised and unhealed segments of America's population. To be an Adult Child contradicts most theories of maturation, yet this phrase developed by the ACOA self-help movement both identifies the problem and the opportunity to heal. Growing up in an alcoholic family environment often results in the loss of a normal childhood, and current addiction literature has recorded accounts of that legacy with resonance and compassion. Their stories provide an understanding of the realities of those children's lives, and the many commonalities peculiar to families where there is a drinking problem. They indicate that the feelings and reactions established in response to the irrational behaviour of a substance abusing parent/s often continues, and the negative effects of family conditioning may weave a distinctive pattern throughout later life. Narrative history's respect of the storyteller's experience is non interventionist. It allows individuals and marginalised groups in the community to be the experts in identifying their own issues and health related needs, and provides the basis for an interactive and collaborative response in theory development. It is anticipated that Evelyn, Paul, Sarah and Jack's biographies will speak for themselves, and the direct speech used by the other men and women involved ensure that the nucleus of this project will be anecdotal.