Family characteristics and the outcome of treatment for alcoholism.

Abstract

The interrelationships of family social environments, family stress and functioning characteristics and treatment outcome were examined in 124 alcoholics 6-8 mo. after their release from a residential treatment program. All the alcoholics were living with their families. In 88 families the alcoholic patient was the husband, in 23 the wife, in 7 an adult son, in 1 an adult daughter, in 1 a grandfather and in 2 both the husband and wife were alcoholics. The Follow-up Information Form, which assesses alcohol consumption and social and psychological functioning at follow-up, was completed by each patient. The Family Environment Scale, which assesses 10 dimensions of family social milieu such as conflict and cohesiveness, was completed independently by patients and other family members. The Family Life Questionnaire, which assesses family stress and functioning characteristics, was completed in most cases by a nonalcoholic family member and only sometimes by the alcoholic. Based on the treatment outcome of the alcoholic member, the families were divided into 2 groups, the highly improved (60) and the slightly improved or unimproved (62). Families in which the alcoholic member showed better treatment outcome were higher than the others on cohesion, active-recreational orientation, and organization, and lower in conflict and control. They experienced more positive and fewer negative life events and reported fewer physical and emotional symptoms and disagreements. Attempts to improve family functioning may contribute to successful treatment of alcoholism.