Family Structural Issues and Chemical Dependency: A Review of the Literature from 1985 to 1991

Gail Mackensen, R. Rocco Cottone

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This review of the literature summarizes publications from 1985 to 1991 that viewed the chemically dependent family from a structural perspective, focusing on boundaries, roles, rules, and communication patterns. The review will provide an overview of structural issues with implications for therapy and suggestions for further research. Seven journals were reviewed and are as follows: Family Process, Journal of Marriage and the Family, Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, American Journal of Family Therapy, Journal of Studies on Alcohol, Journal of Chemical Dependency Treatment and the Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly. Additionally, publications or papers identified by a computer search of Psychological Abstracts were included, identified using the key words “family relations” and “alcoholism.” The intent of this review is to discuss family dynamics from a structural and systemic perspective only. Therefore, psychodynamic literature on family relations is not included.
Original languageAmerican English
JournalAmerican Journal of Family Therapy
Volume20
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 9 1992

Disciplines

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Psychology
  • Psychology

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