Sunday, November 10, 2013

How is alcoholism passed down genetically?

How is Alcoholism passed down from genetically?
            My question is something that has been discussed within my family for quite some time, coming from a family of heavy drinkers, my parents have always been concerned about my behavior regarding alcohol. I have always been told that alcoholism is passed down from generation to generation, but is there any scientific evidence proving this to be true? According to (web4health) Children of alcohol-dependent parents run a higher risk of developing an alcohol problem than other children. This is partly caused by the environment and habits of the parents living in the household. Along with the environment, personality traits are passed on to children, so if the parent runs a risk of alcoholic behavior, the child in the family will also likely possess similar attitudes and behaviors regarding alcoholism. Another genetic trait that can be passed on is lack of endorphins, those who lack endorphins tend to find substances that “make them happy”, a lot of times they resort to alcohol to fill their needs, if the child is born with fewer endorphins they have similar risks associated with alcoholism and other substances. Lastly being exposed to alcohol at an early age negatively shapes the childs behavior, if the child is used to seeing alcohol within the household and sees it being consumed regularly, they will become adapted to it and not see the negativity associated with it.

                This shows that parents are partially responsible for maintaining a good environment within the household while the child is growing up, it is also their responsibility to make the child aware of the dangers associated with alcoholism. 
Jeremy A.M.

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