A model of depression in adult children of alcoholics and nonalcoholics

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between levels of depression in a sample of adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs) and non-ACOAs and patterns of parental drinking behaviors, intergenerational family interactions, attachment behaviors, and self-esteem. Drinking behaviors directly influenced family processes and indirectly influenced self-esteem but did not influence depression. An angry/violent drinking style influenced family processes and attachment styles supporting the hypothesis that certain drinking behaviors disrupt family functioning. The findings contribute to explanations of resilience in ACOAs; ACOAs termed as resilient might have been exposed to a less violent drinking style with resultant healthier familial interactions and adult attachments.

Publication Title

Journal of Counseling and Development

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