Research has suggested different patterns of alcoholism, including one subtype in which the expression of alcoholism requires both genetic vulnerability and a high environmental risk. It is conceivable that some high-risk individuals do not develop alcoholism because of the coping mechanisms they employ. A variety of coping mechanisms have been clinically observed in children of alcoholic parents and many of these children grow up to be free from alcoholism or other psychopathology. Clinical reports concerning children of alcoholics have described a variety of psychological impairments that they experience in addition to alcohol or drug abuse. Most of these studies were limited to assessing children who were receiving treatment for their problems or whose parents were being treated for alcoholism.
Research is needed to examine a broader spectrum of children of alcoholics.
Studies of the variety of adverse consequences for children of alcoholics may also include the relationship between excessive drinking and sexual abuse of children and of spouses. Research on the role of excessive drinking in other violent behavior directed towards children and spouses is also of particular interest. Any research project on children of alcoholics may be included under this announcement, and research studies on gender differences and similarities are encouraged. If the required information is not contained within the application, the application will be deferred until the information is provided. Peer reviewers will address specifically whether the research plan in the application conforms to these policies.