How Does Alcohol Affect Child Development

The growth and development of a human being can be negatively affected by different risk factors while in the womb and throughout childhood. One of the many risk factors is the parental consumption of alcohol. This can lead to birth defects, affected mental and physical abilities, an increased risk for alcoholism, and impaired family relationships. A pregnant woman has a lot of responsibilities to her unborn child. One of these responsibilities includes not exposing her child to teratogens, such as alcohol. A teratogen is an environmental agent that produces a birth defect. Teratogens can be exposed to the fetus if the placental barrier is not effective. They are most detrimental to the fetus during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, …show more content…
If a child has a parent who abuses alcohol, their mental wellbeing can be negatively affected. A study showed that “comparisons between alcoholic and normal families have revealed that families of alcoholics are more troubled and dysfunctional. Their interactions are characterized by higher levels of negativity, conflict, and competitiveness, decreased levels of cohesion and expressiveness, and deficits in problem-solving capabilities” (Rotunda, Scherer, & Imm, 1995). Children are also more susceptible to depression, anxiety, and fewer social interactions amongst their peers.
Alcoholism also has genetic factors. A child is four times more likely to abuse alcohol if their parents are alcoholics. Research shows “that genes are responsible for about half of the risk for alcohol use disorder” (Genetics of Alcohol Use Disorder, n.d.). According to Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, children learn by observing a model; therefore, observing a parent who abuses alcohol will jeopardize the child’s wellbeing. Because of this, children need positive experiences and influences to develop positive behaviors in their