Alcoholics' kids could get addicted too

London: Children whose parents are alcoholic could get addicted to drinks too and may face emotional, behavioural and mental problems, says a study.

Previous studies had revealed that 70 per cent children of alcoholics develop compulsive behaviour about alcohol, drugs, food, sex, work or gambling, while a half ending up marrying alcoholics.

According to the new study by medical journal Priory that reviewed existing data on crime, abuse and alcoholism, the children of alcoholics were four times more likely to be addicted to drink and there was a risk of drug and gambling problems, reported the online edition of BBC News.

The researchers found that 55 per cent of domestic violence occurs in alcoholic homes with alcohol a factor in 90 percent of child abuse cases.

Studies also showed that a third of daughters of alcoholics experienced physical abuse and a fifth sexual abuse- up to four times higher than in non-alcoholic homes, the Priory said.

The study said that children reacted in one of three ways- either they became withdrawn, went into denial or used the experience to benefit themselves by becoming stronger.

Many of the children of alcoholics, even those who would perhaps have been withdrawn, could grow up to be likeable, kind and intuitive, it said.

However, the problems surfaced when they had to confront difficulties.

The report said: "Their feelings about themselves are the opposite of the serene image they present - they generally feel insecure, inadequate, dull, unsuccessful, vulnerable and anxious."

They also struggle to develop strong personal relationships, the study says.