Psychological characteristics of children of alcoholics

Journal/Book: Alcohol Health Res World. 1997; 21: 6000 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20892-7003. Natl Inst Alcohol Abuse Alcoholism. 247-254.

Abstract: Move than 20 years ago, researchers first noted that children of alcoholics (COA's) appeared to be affected by a variety of problems over the course of their life span. Such problems include fetal alcohol syndrome, which is first manifested in infancy; emotional problems and hyperactivity in childhood; emotional problems and conduct problems in adolescence; and the development of alcoholism in adulthood, Although much has been learned over the ensuing two decades, a number of controversial research areas remain. In particular, debate stems from the fact that despite a common interest in COA's, clinically focused literature and research-focused literature have resulted in two distinct bodies of knowledge. This article reviews important research results, with emphasis on findings generated by the alcohol-research community. Attention also is given to examining the empirical validity of concepts that have been advanced by several influential clinicians from the COA field.

Note: Article Sher KJ, Univ Missouri, Columbia,MO 65211 USA

Keyword(s): children of alcoholics; psychological development; behavioral and mental disorder; AODU (alcohol and other drug use) development; family AODU history; childhood; adulthood; fetal alcohol syndrome; research; personality; PERSONALITY-DISORDER; ANXIETY DISORDERS; BASIC DIMENSIONS; PSYCHOPATHOLOGY; BEHAVIOR; TRAITS

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