Psychological problems and family functioning as risk factors in addiction

ABSTRACT

Family provides a rich mixture of stimuli to the offspring that often affects both physical and psychological development. Instilling in children the beliefs, values, and suitable behavior of their society remains a fundamental function of the family. The manner in which the family interaction goes about this process contributes to a range of developmental outcomes. The purpose of the present research was to determine the role of family functioning and psychological problems of drug addicts and non addicts by assessing the difference between the two groups. A cluster sampling method was used. Sample of present research consisted of 240 adolescents divided into two groups of 120 addicts and 120 non addicts each from different socioeconomic status. Cohort study. General scale of Family Assessment Measure, Version III [FAM-III] was administered in order to measure the level of communication, value and norms whereas dyadic Relationship Scale was used to measure affective expression and control among the family members of addicts and non addicts. Renold Adolescent Adjustment Screening Inventory was administered in order to assess anger control problems, emotional distress and positive self in addicts and non addicts. Student's t-test was calculated in order to determine the difference in the level of communication, value and norms, affective expression and control among families of addicts and non addicts. Difference in anger control problems, emotional distress and positive self between the addicts and non addicts was also determined by calculating t-test. Results showed significant differences in the variables among the family members and there is also a significant difference between addicts and non addicts. The family occupies an important place among other groups that socially influence addicts. The problem of relation between the family and addicts should be taken into consideration while designing effective programs for the prevention of addiction. Psychological problems in young persons are playing an equal role in the development of addiction