[Relationship between identified patient (IP) with alcoholic problems and familial factors: in reference to family...

In 1994, a survey was conducted to 105 wives of alcoholics (identified patient: IP) about levels of their family adaptability, cohesion, co-dependence, family group and self-help group participation. In 1995, a follow-up survey was conducted to the same wives. 87 wives responded to the follow-up questionnaire. 17 responses were excluded due to too many missing responses. Statistical analyses were therefore conducted to the remaining 70 subjects. The following results were found. 1) Balanced as opposed to extreme levels of cohesion were associated with abstinence. 2) Family system changes on cohesion and/or adaptability dimensions were associated with abstinence. 3) Wife's over-involvement with drinking husband somewhat appeared to be related to continuation of drinking. As for participation in family group or self-help groups, there was no significant difference between abstinence and drinking groups.