[Adult children of alcoholics. A new diagnostic group with reference to general practice and clinical aspects]

FUNDAMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS: Adult children of alcoholics have, in recent years, become identified as a specific group with often characteristic patterns of health disorders.

Those involved have a three- to four-fold greater risk of developing a dependence themselves than the general population. They are more likely to marry partners who are also dependent and have an above-average propensity toward separation and divorce. Most members of this group have adopted a specific role within the family they come from: for example that of the whipping boy, family hero or fool. Of therapeutic importance is the recognition of one's own involvement through parent dependence and to develop an awareness of specific areas of disorder, for example, in a partnership, self-identity crises, emotional blockades and the risk of becoming dependent oneself.

Therapists with experience of habit-forming disorders and social family work can develop specific activities within the general practice, psychosocial counseling centers, and even in detoxication services. The new self-help groups of adult children of alcoholics are very helpful.