Abstract
While international research has extensively examined the experiences of Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoAs), limited exploration has occurred in South Africa (SA). This study explores the subjective experiences and psychological impact of being raised by a parent with perceived Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in SA. Employing a qualitative approach grounded in phenomenology, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with six self-identified ACoAs and analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), serving as both the guiding methodology and mode of analysis. The study reveals how parental alcoholism disrupts family homeostasis, leading to maladaptive parenting styles characterised by abuse, neglect, and emotional inconsistency. Participants reported relational trauma from instability and unpredictable parental behaviour, leading to chronic anxiety, a lack of safety. This fostered maladaptive coping mechanisms, along with difficulties in attachment, relationships, and identity that persisted into adulthood, shaping their psychological well-being. The findings offer insights for clinicians and policymakers, highlighting the unique challenges of ACoAs in SA and expanding global understanding of alcoholism's intergenerational effects.
Keywords
Children of alcoholics, ACoAs, interpretative phenomenological analysis, lived experiences, parent alcohol misuse, parental alcoholism