Offspring of individuals with alcohol use disorders and professionals in addiction counseling: A qualitative study

Background: The issue of addiction, particularly alcohol dependence, affects not only those directly impacted but also their families. This study focuses on the perception of a group of individuals from families affected by alcohol dependence. The primary objective is to analyze how the influence of alcohol dependence in their families has affected these individuals' choice to pursue specialized careers in addiction studies. Additionally, the study aims to understand how this experience influences their professional development in the field.
Methods: To address these objectives, a methodological approach based on thematic content analysis from an epidemiological perspective was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a selected group of individuals from families with a history of alcohol dependence. The interviews aimed to identify thematic patterns related to the influence of addiction on career choices and its impact on professional development.
Results: The results reveal that the majority of participants perceive that alcohol dependence in their families significantly influenced their decision to specialize in addiction studies. Recurring themes emerged, such as the pursuit of understanding and addressing the issue from a more personal perspective. Shared experiences of overcoming challenges and resilience were also highlighted, suggesting that family experiences motivated these individuals to dedicate themselves to addiction specialization.
Conclusions: In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of considering personal experiences when analyzing motivations for entering specialized fields in addictions. The influence of alcohol dependence in participants' families has proven to be a significant factor in their career choices, shaping their professional outlook. These findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses both personal and professional dimensions to achieve a more effective impact in the field of addictions.