Earlier studies reveal that approximately 70 percent of children with alcoholic parents do tend to assume a compulsive behavioral pattern associated with alcohol, drugs, food, sex, work, or gambling. While, half also end up marrying alcoholics.
The medical journal, 'Priory' looked at data that existed on crime, abuse and alcoholism. That showed children of alcoholics were four times as likely to be addicted to drinking and it indicated risk of drugs and gambling.
Fifty-five percent of domestic violence was found to have occurred in homes of alcoholics. In addition, alcohol was shown to be linked to 90 percent of reported child abuse cases.
The study also states that one third of all daughters of alcoholics experienced physical abuse while one fifth had gone through sexual abuse. That was four times higher in homes where parents were not alcoholics.
The results found that the children responded in three different ways to parents who were alcoholics: they became stronger, went into denial or withdrew from active living.
However, many of these children, even the group that was withdrawn, turn out to be kind, likeable, and intuitive.
Nevertheless, problems arose as children were required to face up to problems and challenges: "Their feelings about themselves are the opposite of the serene image they present - they generally feel insecure, inadequate, dull, unsuccessful, vulnerable and anxious."
Furthermore, these kids also feel more vulnerable in establishing personal relationships.
