Summary of Substance Abuse in a Family

We found that despite a cultural preference to categorize substance abuse as a poor, or personal problem, it seems far more likely that it is a symptom of a greater social issue that can have many different contributing factors.  Substance abuse also affects more than just the person that is using drugs, it affects the whole family system.  Also, when domestic issues reach a place where legal institutions, like child welfare, get involved, the conflict becomes even more complicated.  As shown in the research about the affect that parents with substance abuse problems have on their children is very sad to read.  It is unfortunate to think that babies can stop trying to communicate with their caregivers because they know that there will not be a response from them.  Substance abuse really does affect the whole family system.  We also think that in order for the family to achieve a full recovery, the abuser needs to not only think about themselves but think about how the whole family system would benefit from having health relationships.    

   

Michael Whelan 

Allie Tenore
Mollie Messuri 
Julia