The Role of Death in the Addict Family |
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| Authors: | Sandra B. Coleman M. Duncan Stanton |
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| Affiliation: | Sandra B. Coleman, PhD, is Director of Research and Evaluation, Achievement Through Counseling and Treatment (ACT), 5820 Old York Road, Philadelphia, Pa. 19141.;M. Duncan Stanton, PhD, is Assistant Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, and Director, Addicts and Families Program, Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic, 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pa. 19104. |
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| Abstract: | Drug addiction is a potentially life-threatening problem with suicidal ramifications. Within the family of the addict, the addiction takes on a special, participatory meaning; the addicted member is treated as one undergoing a slow death. These families attach special significance to death and give it considerable emphasis. This appears to arise from unresolved and premature deaths experienced by the family, particularly the parents. The addict is substituted for the deceased member. Treatment can deal with these issues directly through making the mourning explicit. The death issue can also serve as a vehicle for family change. |
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