| Abstract [eng] |
Study objective: to conduct a literature review discussing alcohol dependent parent’s impact on their children’s mental and physical health, behavioral problems, well-being and family environment. Methods: The literature for this review was performed using Pubmed database by entering following keyword combinations: ,,Alcohol dependent“ [MeSh Terms], ,,Parents“ [MeSh Terms], ,,Child of Impaired Parents“ [MeSh Terms], ,,Mental health“, ,,Mental disorder“, „Physical health“, „Behaviour“, „Child health“ [MeSh Terms], ,,Adverse outcomes“. The selection criteria includes articles published in English, published in 2017 – 2022, free access, meets the purpose of the study. Total of 43 articles were included in this review. The data were considered statistically significant when p < 0,05. Results: Both mother’s and father’s alcohol abuse were significantly associated with an increased risk for mental and behavioral disorders in children, including depression, anxiety and attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder. By young adulthood children had significantly greater odds of developing alcohol abuse or dependance. A link was found between difficulties in school related to a poor academic achievements and cognitive performance, low attendance, dropout from school. Alcohol dependent parents are more likely to use physical violence against children. These children are at higher risk of overall mortality, suicide, death from violence and hospitalization due to victimization. The most common type of parental misconduct was neglect. Alcohol dependent parent’s children are at increased risk of encountering child protection services, being taken from their families. Conclusions: Children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk of adverse consequences on mental and physical health, general well-being. It is important for professionals working with children to pay attention to those whose parents abuse alcohol. Addressing parental alcohol dependence as part of treatment is important to prevent negative impact on a child’s health and well-being. |
