Then they can feel the love and self-worth that once seemed so out of reach. In a healthy family, children receive consistent love and attention. They learn which behaviors are okay, and which are not. They learn to express who they are and what's important to them. In an alcoholic family, the situation is very different.
Children are often anxious, confused, and isolated.
There may even be sexual or physical abuse. These children tend to withdraw from others. They don't want anyone to know the truth about their families. Developing ways of coping with the uncertainty, they may become super-kids, almost perfect. They may act out, with alcohol, drugs, or other problems, or may become extremely skilled at adjusting to others.