Personality characteristics of adolescents with alcoholic parents

This study examined personality traits frequently encountered in children in families with at least one alcoholic parent. The sample investigated included 63 adolescents (32 males and 31 females) ranging in age from 12 to 19 years. Twelve self-image variables and eight aggression and anxiety variables were assessed using a battery of psychodiagnostic instruments. The results were compared with those obtained in a control group of 321 age-matched adolescents (160 males and 151 females) growing up in nonalcoholic families. Statistically significant differences between the groups were found in eight self-image variables (impulse control, emotional tone, vocational and educational goals, sexual attitudes, family relationships, psychopathology, and adjustment and depression), in six aggression variables (assault, indirect aggression, verbal aggression, irritability, suspicion, and feelings of guilt), and in both anxiety variables (i.e., anxiety as a state and anxiety as a personality trait. The findings can be functionally applied both to clinical work and to prevention programs for adolescents at risk.