There is much compelling evidence that shows a distinct correlation between a dysfunctional family and substance abuse. Substance abuse can be defined as using either alcohol or drugs to the extent that it disrupts a normal family routine. A normal family is defined as a family where each person is respected and listened to, and there is no fear of emotional, physical or verbal abuse.
Functioning Families
Most families have times when they are not functioning properly. This may occur because of an illness, a divorce situation or a death in the family. However, the time that the family is considered dysfunctional in such cases is short-lived, and if the family is really intact, all the members of the family pull together to keep the family functioning as a whole.
Identification
Counseling professionals have identified four different types of dysfunctional families: the alcoholic and chemically dependent family, the emotionally or psychologically disturbed family, the physically abusive or sexually abusive family and the fundamentalistic or rigidly dogmatic family. The rules that the children must follow in a dysfunctional family are rigid. Children from dysfunctional families often have poor communication patterns, low-self image and loss of identity.
Characteristics of Dysfunctional Families
According to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, members of dysfunctional families often have similar characteristics, such as keeping family "secrets," playing family members against one another and sending double messages, as well as an inability to express feelings or exhibit playfulness and spontaneity. They are often perfectionists and exhibit a high tolerance for inappropriate behavior.
Types
Codependency is another trait that is learned by children who come from dysfunctional families, notes Mental Health America. Codependency in alcoholic and drug-using family dynamics comes from the observance of another relationship, usually parental, that is maintained by emotional abuse.
Healing
There are ways to heal from a dysfunctional family that relied on substances such as alcohol or drugs. According to Mudrashram Institute of Spiritual Studies, you can self-heal by doing an inventory of the problems created by the dysfunction, and "then developing a personal treatment plan to address the aspects of the self that can be rehabilitated."
Inventorying the Damages
Mudrashram Institute of Spiritual Studies suggests you divide a sheet of paper in half. On one half write down the following list: my physical health and appearance; my home and living environment; my emotional life; my relationships; my recovery from addiction and dysfunctional patterns; my mental life and education; my career and work life; my finances; my involvement in the community; my hobbies, interests in other cultures; my desires for travel; my ethics and principles I live by; my spiritual life. On the other half of the paper, write down "Where I am Now." Be as honest as you can with each topic.
Solution
To complete the healing process, Mudrashram Institute of Spiritual Studies advises writing on a separate sheet of paper the goals you would like to see completed, when you might realistically accomplish them and what might help you fulfill these goals. If you are honest with yourself, you will be one step closer to self-healing from the abuse you suffered during childhood.
