Ultimately, we are quick to assume that a mother is an essential part of her child’s life and one of the most important guides for social and emotional development, but, despite the obvious importance of the maternal figure, what about the paternal figure? After all, a father also plays a significantly important role as a teacher and a leader, as well. In fact, our fathers can naturally teach us life lessons that our mothers cannot. So, you will not be surprised (in the least) to hear how an addict father can have a detrimental effect on his children. In fact, men who commonly abused alcohol or suffered from alcoholism when their children were young will be surprised to see that their children can also fall victim to this same mental illness (as well as a hoard of emotional and behavioral problems). Let’s take a closer look and find out how fathers who excessively drink alcohol can hurt their children.
A Stint on Cognitive and Emotional Development
According to medical studies, alcohol use disorder plays a significant role in impeding children’s development, but this mental illness is not the only factor. Other problems like the father’s depression or aggression can also stunt a child’s psychological growth. As noted in the Research Institute on Addictions (RIA) at the University of Buffalo, children who live with alcohol-abusing or alcoholic fathers will tend to suffer from severe emotional, cognitive, and social problems as they grow.
The Control Group Says It All
As part of a study conducted by the RIA, Dr. Kenneth Leonard and his team studied a group of children across 12, 18, and 24 months of age who were being raised by alcohol-abusing fathers. In a natural setting, the scientists observed the children spending time with their parents and made the following observations:
- 12-Month Stage: The fathers spoke negatively and angrily and rarely spent time their little ones, instead opting for aggressive confrontation with the children.
- 18-Month Stage: The children clearly suffered from anxiety and depression and threw more tantrums than regular children their age.
Further studies indicate that, as these children age, they will have a higher tendency towards suicide, difficulties with interpersonal communication, and (worst of all) a tendency to develop substance abuse or addiction like their fathers.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.
