Comparing Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic Parents on the Family Unpredictability Scale

Abstract

Research findings and clinical observations suggest that families with an alcoholic parent are more unpredictable. Alcoholic parents ( n = 25, 68% men, 68% Euro-American, M age = 38.6 yr.) and community parents ( n = 27, 52% men, 70% Euro-American, M age = 38.8 yr.) completed the self-report Family Unpredictability Scale of Ross and Hill. Alcoholic parents reported significantly higher (less predictability) scores on the subscales of Nurturance, Finances, and Discipline, as well as on the Total Family Unpredictability Scale ( ps < .01). This appears to be the first study on family unpredictability and parental alcoholism in which parental reports of multiple dimensions of unpredictability are used. We provide suggestions for research and clinical uses of the scale, especially pertaining to families with an alcoholic parent.