ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE PROBLEMS FOR CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS
Alcohol abuse is defined as a pattern of pathological use which impairs social or occupational functioning and lasts for at least one month. Whether alcoholism is a physical, emotional, or mental disease, remains open to debate (Leuin, 1991). It is estimated that there are over 28 million Americans who are the children of alcoholics (COAs), and that around 11 million of this population are under the age of 18. This at risk group of children are brought up in a chaotic family environment, lacking stability and emotional support (Adger, Macdonald, & Wenger, 1999, p. 1091).
Though some will overcome these and other difficulties, many grow up to face alcohol and drug abuse problems or other serious emotional and coping problems. Research shows that alcoholism in sons, daughters, and grandsons is associated with parental alcoholism, as are many mental health problems, to include depression, panic attacks, and antisocial and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Female COAs are prone to somatic disorders and bulimia. Child abuse among these children is also prevalent; studies estimate that 11.9% to 69% of COAs are abuse victims (Adger, Macdonald, & Wenger, p. 1091; Lennox, Scott-Lennox, & Holder, 1992, p. 88).
Social workers need to identify children of alcoholics or alcoholic families, to allow for early involvement and meaningful intervenement. The National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACoA) and other agencies have addressed this concern for COAs and have reported symptoms and needs of these children, to assist social workers and other health practitioners (Adger, Macdonald, & Wenger, p. 1091). This paper will review the literature regarding the impact of substance abuse on COAs and treatment techniques for COAs, and relate this information to social work practice.
The impact of substance abuse on the COAs begins with the fetus. Fetal alcohol syndrome ...