A significant number of children in this country are being raised by addicted parents. Studies suggest an increased prevalence of alcoholism among parents who abuse children. Existing research suggests alcoholism is more strongly related to child abuse than are other disorders, such as parental depression. Although several studies report very high rates of alcoholism among the parents of incest victims, much additional research is needed in this area. Children of alcoholics exhibit symptoms of depression and anxiety more than children of non-alcoholics.
Children of alcoholics exhibit elevated rates of psychopathology.
Anxiety, depression, and externalizing behavior disorders are more common among COAs than among children of non-alcoholics. Young COAs often show symptoms of depression and anxiety such as crying, bed wetting, not having friends, being afraid to go to school, or having nightmares. Teens may show depressive symptoms by being perfectionistic in their endeavors, hoarding, staying by themselves, and being excessively self-conscious. Teenage COAs may begin to develop phobias. Children of alcoholics experience greater physical and mental health problems and higher health care costs than children from non-alcoholic families.