Generational trauma is an important issue that deserves our attention and action. Research shows that the emotional effects of trauma can influence mental health and relationships well into adulthood. This is particularly true for those who have navigated the challenges of growing up with an alcoholic parent.
For many, confronting the trauma linked to alcoholism can lead to a powerful aversion to alcohol and inspire a desire for positive change.
On the flip side, individuals who witnessed adults turning to alcohol in times of distress may come to view this as a normal coping mechanism. They can end up adopting harmful strategies that perpetuate a cycle of trauma and addiction. However, by recognizing and understanding these patterns, we can take proactive steps to break this cycle and pave the way for healthier, thriving future generations.
Children who grew up in an alcoholic home develop similar personality traits and characteristics. They may exhibit traits such as being overly perfectionistic, people-pleasing behaviors, and a tendency to avoid conflict, which can severely impact their adult relationships.
Many of these children often struggle with low self-esteem and a heightened sense of responsibility from a young age.
Additionally, many find it challenging to trust others, often leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
In her research, Dr. Woititz emphasized the profound impact that such environments have on emotional development and interpersonal relationships.She noted that these childhood experiences can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
Dr Janet Woititz published her national bestselling book, Adult Children of Alcoholics in 1983. In it she outlined 13 characteristics of adult children of alcoholics but also applied these same characteristics to those who grew up in households where other compulsive behaviours are present such as gambling, drug abuse or overeating. Adult children who experienced chronic illness, strict religious attitudes, foster care and other dysfunctions, also identified with the characteristics, Woititz says.
Understanding these patterns is crucial, as it can lead individuals to seek therapy and support groups for better emotional health.Recognizing these traits can be the first step towards healing and personal growth for those affected.Ultimately, acknowledging their background allows them to break the cycle of dysfunction and create healthier relationships.
.
This journey towards recovery often requires patience, empathy, and professional guidance, at Searidge we can offer the guidance and support needed to cope with the aftermath of growing up in a dysfunctional family setting.
Adult children of alcoholics maintain control over their behaviour and feelings. They also try to control the behaviour and feelings of others. They do this because they are afraid not because they want to hurt themselves or others. They fear that if they relinquish control their lives will get worse, and they can become very anxious when they are not able to control a situation
Adult children of alcoholics tend to bury their feelings (particularly anger and sadness) since childhood and are not able to feel or express emotions easily. Ultimately they fear all powerful emotions and even fear positive emotions like fun and joy.
Adult children of alcoholics have a fear of people who are in authority, people who are angry, and do not take personal criticism very well. Often they misinterpret assertiveness for anger. Therefore, they are constantly seeking approval of others whilst losing their identities in the process. Frequently they isolate themselves.
Adult children of alcoholics are oversensitive to the needs of others. Their self-esteem comes from others’ judgments of them, thus having the compulsive need to be perfectionists and be accepted.
.
Adult children of alcoholics cannot have fun because it is stressful, especially when others are watching. The child inside is frightened, and in an effort to appear perfect, exercises strict self-control.
Adult children of alcoholics are weighed down with a very low sense of self-esteem and respect, no matter how competent they may be.
Whenever adult children of alcoholics feel threatened, they tend to deny that which provoke their fears.
Adult children of alcoholics fear intimacy because it makes them feel that they lost control. They have difficulties expressing their needs and consequently have problems with their sexuality, and repeat relationship patterns.
Adult children of alcoholics may either be passive or aggressive victims, and are often attracted to others like them whether in friendships, career and love relationships.
Adult children of alcoholics may eat compulsively or become workaholics. They may become addicted and co-dependent in a relationship, or behave compulsively in other ways. Sadly, they may abuse alcohol and become alcoholics like their parent(s).
Adult children of alcoholics become addicted to chaos and drama, which gives them their adrenaline fix and feelings of power and control.
.
Adult children of alcoholics are often in relationships with people they can rescue.
Adult children of alcoholics will do anything to save a relationship, rather than face the pain of abandonment even if the relationship is unhealthy.
Adult children of alcoholics are highly susceptible to stress-related illnesses.
Adult children of alcoholics are frequently depressed. Losses experienced during their childhood were often never grieved for because the alcoholic family doesn’t tolerate intense uncomfortable feelings.
Adult children of alcoholics remain hyper vigilant, constantly scanning their surroundings for potential catastrophes.
Many lose themselves in their relationship with others and sometimes find themselves attracted to alcoholics or other compulsive personalities – such as workaholics. They are generally attracted to those who are emotionally unavailable.
Adult children sometimes like to be the “rescuer” and will form relationships with others who need their help, to the extent of neglecting their own needs. What happens is that they place the focus on the needs of someone else whilst not having to examine their own difficulties and shortcomings.
Often, these adult children will acquire the characteristics of alcoholics, even if they never drink themselves. They can be in denial, develop poor coping strategies, have an inability to problem solve and form dysfunctional relationships.
Many adult children who grew up in a dysfunctional home have been deeply affected by their experiences and often seek counselling and professional treatment to help resolve these complex issues and navigate the emotional turmoil that can stem from such environments. These individuals may struggle with feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and trust issues that can impact their relationships and overall quality of life.
If this resonates with you then you want to reach out for support.
Our SMART Recovery Family and Friends mutual support group can play a vital role in providing assistance and a supportive community for those who grew up in such an environment. This group utilizes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Rational Emotive Therapy as effective therapeutic approaches to empower individuals in their journey toward healing and personal growth. By engaging in such programs, participants can learn valuable coping strategies and tools to help them manage their feelings, strengthen their relationships, and improve their overall well-being.
.
