The alcohol-abusing mother and her family

Abstract

The focus of this study is to investigate the experiences of alcohol-abusing mother and to explore the effects of alcohol-abusing mothers on the whole family, especially on her children. It will also raise awareness about the importance of this issue and will encourage abusers for treatment by highlighting consequences of alcohol abuse. The actual sample consists of: one alcohol-abusing mother, her 16-year-old daughter, a very close cousin; a recovered alcohol-abusing mother, her alcoholic husband, and her 19-year-old daughter. Thus, the sample involves the total of six persons. A Qualitative Research Method was utilised. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were used in order to gather information. Most interview questions were open-ended so as to allow respondents to express their own feelings and experiences. Literature and content of semi-structured interviews were compared and contrasted. The main findings showed that alcohol abuse has a negative impact on the mother alcohol abuser and her family. These consequences can be divided into Physical, Social, Legal, Psychological and Spiritual.