Current conceptions of Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOAs) are unable to account for recent research which suggests many of the characteristics used to describe ACOAs are not valid. These conceptions also fail to explain the documented heterogeneity among ACOAs with regard to life and therapeutic outcomes. In this paper, an alternative model of…

A review of the academic literature regarding the existence or lack of relationship between chemically dependent adults and neglected or abused children supports the conclusion that alcohol and other drugs are a significant factor in most behavioral patterns associated with endangering children. The author identifies five modes of parent-child…

The potential for helping children of alcoholic parents to understand and to cope with the problems they experience was examined. Areas were explored in which supportive services may be provided to children of alcoholic parents. It was concluded that the school staff who have close, continuous contact would be the best and most accessible…

During a 3-month period ending in January 1977, questionnaires were given to 889 eighth and twelfth grade students to determine the extent of drinking among rural teenagers in Idaho, and the sociological and psychological factors affecting their drinking habits. At least 16% of 8th graders and 34% of 12th graders drink frequently. A much higher…