Substance abuse causes emotional turmoil in a family environment. Depending on the dynamics and the position of the substance abuser in the family structure, its effects will vary. Drug use by the caregivers can have lasting effects on emotionally developing children. Substance abuse by children can cause problems in parent-child relationships, leading to breakdown of family structures.
Family Structure
Dysfunctional family structure plays a part in either contributing to substance abuse or prolonging it. According to Jrank.org, the risk and protective factors suggest that family relationships have an impact on substance abuse and dependence. However, the research is not sufficient to indicate which or how much of these protective factors are necessary to reduce risk. There are variations across groups and in timing in their importance for preventing or reducing risk. The risk and protective factors at other levels, such as community or societal, may mitigate or attenuate risk.
Effects of Substance Abuse By Parents
Young children are profoundly affected by parents drug use.Coaf.org explains "Many times, children of substance abusers are frightened. They may be the victims of physical violence or incest. They may also witness violence--frequently alcohol and other drug abuse goes hand in hand with domestic violence. And as a result, these youngsters may suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, with the same kinds of sleep disturbances, flashbacks, anxiety and depression that are associated with victims of war crimes."
Drug Abuse By Children
When children abuse drugs they lose interest in normal activities. They become withdrawn and rebellious. Stress caused by the drug use may cause tension and guilt between the mother and father of the child. The child alienates his parents and starts exhibiting anti-social behavior. Aacap.org explains "parents can prevent their children from using drugs by talking to them about drugs, open communication, role modeling, responsible behavior and recognizing if problems are developing
Effects of Sibling Substance Abuse
The affects of drug abuse on non-using siblings can lead to emotional problems in the non-using child. The drug-using sibling garners all the attention of the rest of the family, leaving the other child feeling left out. According to DrugRehabTreatmeant.com, "As with any family-related trauma, the person at the heart of the concern gets the most attention. When adolescent mental health or substance abuse issues arise, the siblings of the substance abuser may be overlooked or neglected."
Treatment Options
Treatment of a substance abuse in a family setting should involve the entire family. Counseling for family members of the drug user is recommended. Twelve step programs are the most popular treatment option. Drug Rehab Treatment.com explains "Self-help groups, such as 12-Step programs, provide peer support for continued chemical abstinence as well as developing a supportive network or fellowship. They are free and available 24 hours a day within the addict's community or via the computer on the Internet."
References
- Jrank.org: Substance Abuse-Family Factors Contributing to Risk and Resiliency
- Phoenix House Center on Addiction and the Family: Effects of Parental Substance Abuse On Children And Family
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry:Teens: Alcohol And Other Drugs
- Drug Rehab Treatment: Parenting Younger Siblings of Addicted Teens
