HIGH-SCHOOL AND COLLEGE-STUDENT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS - A PILOT EDUCATIONAL-PROGRAM AND ASSESSMENT OF READINESS FOR ASSISTANCE

This study attempts to identify college and high school students who are children of alcoholics or those concerned about parental drinking and assess their readiness for prevention programs. A brief educational presentation was provided to both student populations including information about alcoholism and COA issues. Following the presentation, students were assessed with measures evaluating knowledge gained from the presentation, COA status, family environment, individual characteristics, and their readiness to participate in longer-term educational and support groups. Findings indicate a significant number were willing to provide information regarding their parents' or relatives' drinking with a relatively large number reporting second degree relatives as alcoholic. A significant number indicated an interest in participating in a group to provide education and support. Family conflict scores were higher in alcoholic than non-alcoholic families. Findings indicate student readiness for prevention efforts and that even a time limited educational program can be beneficial.