A 46-year-old member asked:
Does family culture affect the rate of substance abuse among the members?
3 doctor answers • 10 doctors weighed in
Dr. Pamela Pappasanswered
Psychiatry 43 years experience
Yes: There is evidence that alcoholism has some genetic component. Also if certain behaviors (like substance abuse) seem "normal" in a family, there's more likelihood of young people doing them like adults do. Some may feel their kids won't notice them smoking marijuana or drinking alcohol regularly, but they do. Family patterns of not talking, keeping secrets, and instilling shame encourage it too.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Vasu Brownanswered
Integrative Medicine 35 years experience
Yes: It depends on accessibility and acceptance of abusive substance. In some cultures alcohol is part of tradition so it is easy to have access to the same.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Cyma Khalilyanswered
Psychiatry 36 years experience
YES: There are certain groups that have problems with processing alcohol and drugs. Perhaps an enzymatic issue for metabolism like for native americans. Additionally more and more information about not allowing alcohol in children and teens. Even in france and italy. Leading towards alcohol abuse issues in adulthood.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 6, 2019
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