Children of alcoholics : a social work perspective

Abstract

In our society, alcohol dependence is such a common problem that it eventually touches the lives of almost everyone. In families where alcohol dependence is a major problem, abusive behaviour is almost always present. The objective of this study was to analyse whether other research findings on children of alcoholics in other countries were applicable to Maltese children. To obtain a true picture of what the children in an alcoholic family go through, the children themselves were interviewed. The resultant research findings substantiated most of the literature review, and should provide guidance to the development of a social worker role in the intervention of children living in problem drinking families. Furthermore, the results should contribute to an empirical foundation for the development of therapeutic groups, which will benefit children in these families, and build awareness about the situation of children of alcoholics in Malta.