How Does Parental Drug Use Affect Child Development?

 

Homes in which substance abuse is prevalent are often

unpredictable and chaotic. Inappropriate family roles are often

assumed, such as children taking care of siblings like parents or

assuming financial responsibilities of the household.

Additionally, communication among leadership in the

household is often unclear or nonexistent, leaving children in a

living environment that lacks structure.

It breeds violence. Substance abuse and domestic violence are

closely tied.

It contributes to mental health problems. Parents who abuse

drugs and alcohol are more likely to deal with things like

financial problems, divorce, physical abuse, unemployment,

and legal problems, which can all cause stress at home.

Children of alcoholics have a higher prevalence of suicide

attempts, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression when

compared with their peers.

                                                 

It contributes to physical health problems. .4 Additionally,

children of substance abusers may suffer from stress-related

health issues such as migraines or gastrointestinal problems as

a result of their parent’s alcohol and drug abuse. Used needles

and other drug paraphernalia may also create an unsanitary

living environment that is full of health hazards.

It creates difficulties at school. Children whose parents abuse

drugs and alcohol are more likely to be distracted at school due

to emotional and psychological stress, lack of sleep, and

worries or fears about things going on at home. They may also

be reluctant to develop friendships with other kids at school

because they are embarrassed by their home situation.

It fuels emotional issues. Children of drug-abusing parents may

harbor negative emotions such as shame, fear, insecurity, or

mistrust as a result of their parents’ substance abuse.

It increases their own risk of drug addiction. Children of

substance abusing parents are more than twice as likely to have

a drug and alcohol use disorder by young adulthood as

compared to their peers.