Citation

Wojcieszek KA. Med. Wieku Rozwoj. 2003; 7(1 Pt 2): 65-74.

Vernacular Title

zice i dzieci w rodzinach z problemami alkoholowymi--studium

Affiliation

Wydział Nauk Społecznych, Szkoła Wyzsza im. B. Jańskiego, ul. Elektronowa 2, Warszawa, Poland. kwojcieszek@poczta.onet.pl

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Instytut Matki i Dziecka)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

14704491

Abstract

The paper describes the proposition of solution of a difficult dilemma concerning the real role of parents in the development of children in families with alcohol problem (alcohol misuse and dependency of parents). From one side drinking parents are the cause of serious destruction of child health and development. From the other side we have the data about positive influence of strong bonds between children and their parents in alcohol use prevention (parenting as protective factor). Original philosophical theory of person structure with additional theory of parenting supplies the possibility of the solution of the dilemma. It is necessary to differentiate the personal relationship and the emotions (and behaviours) as two different levels of bonding. Alcohol dependent parents have influence on both levels, they protect and make the risk at the same time. The proposal is that the protective influence is still more powerful and important, so it is necessary to protect bonds between children and their parents despite the fact of some lateral destruction. It is also necessary to confront parents with the effects of their behaviour (intervention, therapy) to develop their possibilities to renovate their parenting functions, which is necessary for effective prevention. The theory allows to understand the situation of the child in the alcohol family more precisely. It is especially important for social workers, teachers and therapists working with such families. Some rules for working with the children of alcoholics are formulated.

Language: pl