Consistent and nurturing significant others in the lives of the children is also important. Adult COAs often report that some adult made all the difference to them. It may have been a coach, teacher, neighbor, parent of a friend, or a grandparent, and while the problems at home may have never been discussed, the concern and encouragement mattered. Religious observance has also been a protective factor for many of these children. Prevention Programs For COAs Group programs seem most effective.
Groups reduce the feelings of isolation, shame and guilt so common in families with addiction.
It also capitalizes on the importance to adolescents of peer influence and mutual support. Some programs may be directed at COAs in a broad based community prevention program. Other programs target specific groups that always have a large component of COAs, such as abused or neglected children or youth with academic difficulties or gang affiliations. Prevention and intervention services should be automatic as part of a comprehensive social service program. Though there is little data existing on the effectiveness of Alateen as prevention, the advantages to adolescents of peer support and education about the nature of alcoholism, seem obvious.