Behavioral Types and Cognitive Functions of Parents with and without Alcohol Use Disorder: A Cross-sectional Comparative Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Children of parents with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are at risk for a wide range of neuropsychological dysfunction and psychopathology. These traits or states may increase their vulnerability to developing substance use. This study attempts to examine the behavioral, intellectual, and cognitive dimensions in children of parents with alcohol dependence so that early identification and intervention can be planned. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was done among age- and sex-matched children of alcohol-dependent parents (COA [Children of parents with alcohol use disorder], n = 54) and nonusers (CON [children of non-COA parents], n = 54). Developmental psychopathology checklist, Malins Intelligence Scale, digit span test, and trail-making test were used to assess children. The severity of the alcohol dependence questionnaire was used for the assessment of parents with AUD. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, mean, and range are provided. Comparison between groups was done using the Chi-square test and independent t-test as appropriate. Results: COA had significantly higher behavioral problems, more stressors, difficult temperamental traits, low intellectual functioning, deficits in attention, information processing speed, and working memory. Conclusion: Children with parental AUD had a higher prevalence of various behavioral and emotional problems and executive dysfunction.