Married Alcoholic Women: A Review

Abstract

The literature pertaining to female alcoholism with a particular focus on married alcoholic women is critically reviewed. Theoretical as well as methodological flaws are pointed out. A brief profile of the female alcohol abuser, as commonly depicted in the literature, is followed by a review of studies on married alcoholic women and the impact their heavy drinking has on the marital relationship. Various existing treatment modalities for alcoholic women are then considered. A family-focused approach such as family therapy, which would involve family members who are both a potential source of problems as well as of support toward recovery, is then suggested as the best approach. Finally some suggestions are made with regard to a more systematic as well as a more encompassing line of research on alcoholic women.