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Do Family of Origin Problems Cause Chemical Addiction?: Exploring the Relationship Between Chemical Dependency and Codependence

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This paper discusses the relationship between chemical dependence and codependence. The Harvard Medical School Study of Adult Development, the Personality Studies of Gordon Barnes, and the PAW studies are summarized to provide convincing evidence that codependence does not cause chemical dependence but that it does interfere with recovery and should not be ignored in treatment. Operational definitions of chemical dependence and codependence are provided. It is reported that 15 percent of the adult population is chemically dependent, 45 percent are codependent, and 65 percent of all chemically dependent people in treatment are also codependent. Seven guidelines for the appropriate management of the chemically dependent ACA are presented. The paper concludes by reviewing the dangers of returning to a mental health model of chemical dependency under the guise of treating codependency or ACA issues. This paper is an edited transcript of Mr. Gorski's presentation at SECAD 88 (The Southeastern Conference on Alcohol and Drug Abuse) in Atlanta, Georgia, on December 2, 1988, entitled ACAism Does Not Cause Chemical Addiction.

--- from book's back cover