Problems That Damage a Family?

The old car has just been washed and waxed. To passersby it looks shiny, almost new. But underneath the surface, destroying rust is eating away the body of the vehicle. It is similar with some families. Although to outward appearances everything looks fine, smiling faces hide fears and pain. Behind closed doors destroying elements are eating away at family peace. Two problems that can this effect are alcoholism and violence.

People around does not condemn the moderate use of alcoholic beverages, even the bible, but it does condemn drunkenness. Alcoholism is more than drunkenness; it is a chronic preoccupation with alcohol drink and a loss of control over their consumption. Alcoholics can be adults. Sadly, they can also be youths.

Misuse of alcohol can destroy family peace. The effects of alcoholism are felt by the entire family. The spouse may become absorbed in efforts to stop the alcoholics drinking or to cope with his unpredictable behavior. She tries concealing the liquor, throwing it away, hiding his money, and appealing to his love for family, for life, even for God- but the alcoholic still drinks. As her efforts to control his drinking meet with repeated failure, she feels frustrated and inadequate. She may begin suffer from fear, anger, guilt, nervousness, anxiety, and lack of self-respect.
Children do not escape the effects of parents alcoholism. Some are physically. Others are molested sexually. They may even blame themselves for a parents alcoholism. Frequently their ability to trust others is shattered by the alcoholics inconsistent behavior. Because they cannot comfortably talk about what is happening at home, the children may learn to suppress their feelings, often with harmful physical consequences. Such children may carry this lack of self confidence or self-respect right into adulthood.