While addiction is often associated with only the person struggling, the fact of the matter is that addiction has a much larger impact. Addiction not only affects the addict but also those closest to the person, including friends, coworkers, and family members. In fact, you could argue that the direct family members, particularly the ones living in the same house, are the ones most greatly impacted, both in a positive and negative way.
Whether intentional or not, family members often take specific roles in both the addiction and recovery process, with some contributing to the cycle of addiction while others may be more of a healing presence. Understanding these family roles in addiction is crucial for addressing addiction effectively and fostering a healthier, more supportive environment.
In this blog, we will take a deeper look at those roles, both healthy and dysfunctional, and also discuss the ways family members can help both during and after treatment.
What Are Family Roles in Addiction?
When a person struggles with addiction, the immediate members of that person’s family, particularly the ones living with the person, tend to unconsciously behave in certain ways in order to cope with the situation. As a result of their various coping mechanisms, they end up each taking on certain roles, some good and some bad.
Understanding these various roles is important for everyone because, in many cases, the family members don’t even realize they are taking on a specific role. In fact, they may not even realize that they are behaving or acting in a certain way, either good or bad, because to them, it’s an unconscious coping mechanism.
By examining these roles closely, though, families can begin to see where changes need to be made to foster an environment of recovery rather than destruction.
Dysfunctional Roles Families Play in Addiction
Dysfunctional Roles Families Play in Addiction
The primary dysfunctional roles that family members play are the enabler, the scapegoat, the hero, the lost child, the mascot, and the addict themselves. Each of these roles comes with behaviors and psychological patterns that shape family interactions and influence the trajectory of addiction.
Let’s take a look at each role:
The Addict
This one is pretty self-explanatory. It’s the family member who is the one suffering from a substance use disorder. Their behavior drives the dysfunction in the family, often leading to instability, secrecy, and conflict. In some cases, they may even manipulate family members to sustain their addiction, creating additional emotional and financial burdens for those around them.
The Enabler
This is the person who tries to “fix” the problems of the addict, often covering for their mistakes, providing financial support, or making excuses. While they may be well-intended, the enabler prevents the addict from facing the consequences of their actions and seeking help. They may believe that they are protecting the addict, but in reality, they are prolonging the addiction and preventing real recovery.
The Hero
The hero is the person in the house who always tries to put a positive spin on things. They strive for perfection to counterbalance the negative effects of addiction, often suppressing their own emotions and needs. The hero often feels immense pressure to maintain the appearance of a successful, well-functioning family despite the chaos occurring behind closed doors.
The Scapegoat
The rebellious one of the group, the scapegoat, often acts out in order to draw attention away from the addict. They may be blamed for family problems leading to self-destructive behaviors, including a substance use problem of their own.
The Lost Child
Withdrawn and isolated, the lost child avoids conflict and connection. They may retreat into books, video games, or solitude to escape the chaos that addiction brings. The lost child often suffers from emotional detachment as they get older.
The Mascot
The mascot often uses humor as their coping mechanism, using it as a way to mask or deflect from the pain and anxiety they are feeling.
Healthy Roles of Family Members in Addiction Recovery
While most family members subconsciously take on one of the roles above, they can also take on a role that promotes positivity and healing.
Healthy roles family members can play in addiction include:
- Supporter – Instead of enabling, family members can provide emotional support while encouraging accountability and treatment participation.
- Communicator – Open and honest communication fosters understanding and trust, creating a foundation for recovery.
- Educator – Learning about addiction helps family members better understand their loved one’s struggles and find constructive ways to assist in their recovery.
- Boundary Setter – Establishing and enforcing healthy boundaries is crucial for both the person in recovery and their family members. Boundaries ensure that family members do not become emotionally or financially drained by the addiction.
- Role Model – Demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms and self-care can inspire the individual in recovery to adopt positive behaviors.
What Is the Importance Of Support Groups in Addiction Treatment?
While family members can play a vital role in the recovery process, not everyone has family to turn to. Or, even if they do, those family members may feel as though they need their own support system.
In both those instances, support groups offer a safe space, whether it’s for the person in recovery or the family of the person, to share experiences, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. In addition to various support groups and 12-step programs for the person in recovery, groups such as Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, and Families Anonymous provide invaluable support for the family members as well.
Family Involvement In Adolescent Substance Abuse
Many people associate addiction with adults, however, addiction can happen in people of all ages, including children and adolescents.
When addiction affects a young person, family involvement is even more critical because of the age of the child and the vulnerability that comes with adolescence. Families can play a significant role in prevention, intervention, and recovery by:
- Engaging in open and nonjudgmental communication
- Recognizing early warning signs of substance use in adolescents
- Encouraging professional intervention when needed
- Providing a structured and supportive environment
Learn More About Family Roles in Addiction at Ethos Behavioral Health
At Ethos Behavioral Health, we understand the profound impact that addiction has on families. That’s why we offer various comprehensive treatment programs, including family therapy, education, and support services to help individuals and their loved ones heal together. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, contact us today.