Children of Alcoholics: A School-Based Comparative Study

Abstract

This study investigates children of alcoholics (COAs) and their cohorts who are not affected by parental alcoholism (non-COAs). Participants include fourth through sixth grade students who are identified as COAs and non-COAs. The study examines differences between COAs and non-COAs on measures of internalized shame, self-esteem, perceived support, and teacher behavior ratings. Results indicate that COAs and non-COAs demonstrate no significant differences on measures of social support and shame. In contrast, self-esteem and teacher ratings for COAs are significantly lower in comparison to ratings for non-COAs. In addition, teacher ratings of male COAs are significantly negatively affected by their COA status, whereas female COA and non-COA teacher ratings do not differ significantly.