FACT SHEET ON THE CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLIC FAMILIES

DID YOU KNOW THAT?

18% of Americans grew up living with an alcoholic or problem drinker. (The Record, October 1, 1991).

Nearly 10% of adults have been married to or had a marriage­like relationship with an alcoholic or problem drinker (Record).

50% to 60% of all alcoholics have at least one alcoholic parent (Newsweek 1979).

In 90% of reported child abuse cases, alcoholism is indicated (Borders 1974).

Children with alcoholic parents are twice as likely to become alcoholic themselves as children from non­alcoholic famileis (Globetti 1973).

Children of alcoholics were seen, on the averqge, twice as many times by school psychologists or counselors than children of non­alcoholic parents. These children were more likely to be suspended from school and three times more likely to be expelled. (Miller & Jang 1977)

In younger children from alcoholic homes, ther is a higher frequency of stuttering, unreasonable fears, bed­wetting and temper tantrums (Fox 1968, Cork 1969, Wein 1970, Globetti 1973, Borders 1974 and Fine 1975).

The younger the child the more severe the pathology (rage, shame, confusion, guilt, fear and worry are typical feelings), when active alcoholism is prevalent (Stone & Small 1978).

Children from alcoholic multi­problem families are more likely to fail in marriage, employment and their ability to support themselves (Miller & Jang 1977).

In all areas of family problems; placement, runaways, drop­out due to pregnancy, mental neglect, delinquent behavior, children of alcoholic parents have a significantly higher incidence of involvement (Stone 1977).