SUBSTANCE ABUSE

The Effect of Family Dynamic of Substance Abuse on a Child's Social Development

Abstract

In this study we try to explore the family dynamic of substance abuse in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on family dynamic of substance abuse and its impact on the social development of children. The core purpose of this paper is to enlighten the influence of parental substance abuse on the social development of children. According to various studies, the substance abuse involvement by family has a significant impact on the child's social development; because, the drug or alcohol exposure of a child during pregnancy causes several psychological and mental disorders in children. In addition, the effects of family dynamic of substance abuse are not limited to exposure of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy; but, there are several factors that influence a child because of his parents' addiction. The lack of love, affection and the lack of control on the child deteriorate child's social development; in addition, the criticism by society converts child's behavior to be antisocial. Hence, it can be interpreted that family dynamic of substance abuse critically affects child's social development.

Table of Contents

Introduction4

The Impact of Substance-Abusing Parents on Children5

The Impact of Family Dynamics of Substance Abuse on Child's Social Development6

Parental Substance Abuse and Child Neglect6

Lack of Communication in Family6

Deterioration of Child's Self Image7

Isolation8

Stigmatization8

Social Rejection9

Lack of Support from Family9

Weak Family Life10

School performance and Behavior Problems10

Criminal Behavior11

Family Dynamics of Substance Abuse and Anti-social Behavior in Children11

Instrumental Antisocial Behavior12

Impulsive Hostile Behavior13

Anxious Aggressive Behavior13

Clinical Treatment for Substance Abuse14

Substance Abuse Treatment via Counseling14

Conclusion15

References18

The Effect of Family Dynamic of Substance Abuse on a Child's Social Development

Introduction

Substance abuse is a common correlate of criminal offending and victimization, yet there is no single, universal definition of substance abuse. Substance abuse may be defined as any substance use that is associated with persistent interpersonal, legal, occupational or educational problems. It can also be used to refer to the use of substances in risky situations. The term substance abuse has been used broadly across research disciplines to cover behaviors such as substance use, misuse, abuse, and dependence. Drug abuse and addiction is caused by a variety of factors comingled. Studies have shown that having a history of physical and sexual abuse is more common in drug users in women than in men. Concurrent mental health problems with substance abuse are higher for women than men, and mental health problems are more likely to precede substance use problems. This is due in part to the increased likelihood of substance-abusing women who have experienced abuse or trauma at some point in their lives.

According to various studies, there is a strong correlation between the family dynamics of substance abuse and the social development of children. Substance abuse has different definitions in different contexts but primarily refers to negativity of the use of drugs. The substance abuse in the individuals not only affects their behavior and psychic ability; but, it has a significant impact on their offspring. It is not necessary that the behavior and ...