Adult Children of Alcoholics

Book Description

Ten years ago, Janet Woititz broke new ground in our understanding of what it is to be an Adult Child of an Alcoholic. Today she re-examines the movement and its inclusion of Adult Children from various dysfunctional family backgrounds who share the same characteristics. After more than ten years of working with ACoAs she shares the recovery hints that she has found to work. Read Adult Children of Alcoholics to see where the journey began and for ideas on where to go from here.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book .......2007-09-21

If you are the adult child of an alcoholic this book is a must read. It brings to light things that many have felt, but have not understood why.

Excellent insights.......2007-09-10

This book was amazing. The insights into personality traits and situational details was extremely helpful. If you don't understand the issues, you cannot solve the problems and this book was very clear in describing some of the problems and how they came about when living as a child of (an) alcoholic(s). I highly recommend to anyone who is interested in the issues that come about as a result of being an ACA without being too heavy-handed. I couldn't put the book down.

EPIPHANY!.......2007-08-07

This is the grandmammy of all books written about, for and by Adult Children of Alcoholics. I first read this in 1987 and it was a personal epiphany. It held up a mirror to my beliefs and behaviour, explained a lot of things I didn't understand about myself, helped me realize that I was not alone and gave me hope that I could change my life. I recommend it to anyone who comes from an alcoholic or dysfunctional home.

It's a very basic book and one that is perfect for someone just beginning the recovery journey. It is also an excellent book to return to again and again.

Adult Children of Alcoholics.......2007-03-17

Recommended by my Doctor, I was a little skeptical. But, It's really an invaluable read to anyone who has ever grown up or dealing with someone who is a child of alcoholism.

The book that changed my perception of myself..........2007-03-08

I am so glad I read that book. It saved me from a life without knowing myself. It helped me in so many ways. I would suggest this book to anyone and everyone. It is for someone who has dealt with addiction before.This book helps you deal with it in a child or a spousal way. Thank you

It Will Never Happen to Me: Growing Up With Addiction As Youngsters, Adolescents, Adults

Average customer rating:

Really good
awakening
accurate and helpful
Excellent Insight into Who I am and Why
Great book

It Will Never Happen to Me: Growing Up With Addiction As Youngsters, Adolescents, Adults
Claudia Black
Manufacturer: Hazelden
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Adult Children of Alcoholics | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Drug Dependency | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Substance Abuse | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Happiness | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1568387989

Book Description

Here is Claudia Black's best-selling classic on the experience and legacy of being raised in an addictive household. In an all too familiar scenario, played out in millions of homes everyday, children who grow up in addictive families abide by certain rules: don't talk, don't trust, don't feel. And they take on rigid survival roles--the responsible child, the adjuster, the placater, the acting-out child--that are youthful coping behaviours which can eventually contribute to problems of depression, loneliness and addiction in adulthood. Using poignant personal stories, revealing explanations, and helpful exercises, Black helps readers gain personal insights and develop new skills that lead to a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life. While continuing to recognize alcohol as the primary addiction within families, this newly revised edition of "It Will Never Happen to Me" broadens concepts to include addictive disorders involving other drugs, money, food, sex and work.

Customer Reviews:

Really good.......2007-05-15

This is a great read for anyone who has grown up or is growing up in an alcoholic family. It helps the reader in very simple ways to understand the dynamics of alcoholic families and offers concrete ways of dealing with issues and problems. I recommend it to anyone currently dealing with alcoholism or dealing with the aftermath of an alcoholic upbringing, or even for someone just curious about the effects of alcoholism on families.

awakening.......2006-01-18

This book was recommended by my therapist and after reading it I gave it to a friend who is also an adult child of an alcoholic. I haven't got the book back so I'm buying another copy for myself. I NEED to read it again and again. It opened my eyes and put a lot of the pieces of the puzzle together for me. Although it's hard to face some of the realities this book points out, I believe it to be one of the vital steps I am taking in trying to change my life for the better. It's never too late.

accurate and helpful.......2005-10-29

claudia black is a respected author in the field of addictions. she writes for adults and children for both alcoholics and their families. i have read many books in this area and she is one of my favorite authors. the book is short, accutate,compassionately written, and forever timely. worth reading!

Excellent Insight into Who I am and Why.......2005-08-07

I read this book AFTER reading ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS by Janet Woititz. Both provided me with insight into a problem I only recently realized I have. However, Black's book is both easier to read and has more detailed analysis. She divides ACoAs into four categories: The Responsible One, The Adjuster, The Placater, and "Acting Out". I fit the profile of Responsible in every way. I now understand myself better, and am beginning therapy for the first time in my life at the age of 55. Thank you, Dr. Black, for opening my eyes!

Great book.......2005-01-28

This book is a must-read for everyone who grew up in an alcoholic family.

Struggle for Intimacy (Adult Children of Alcoholics series)

Average customer rating:

A MUST READ!
I loved this book
essential
I learned about healthy relationships
One of just a few practical help books

Struggle for Intimacy (Adult Children of Alcoholics series)
Janet Geringer Woititz
Manufacturer: Health Communications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Codependency | Mental Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Codependency | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0932194257

Book Description

Janet Woititz, mother of the recovery movement, sensitively addresses the barriers of trust and intimacy that children learn in an alcoholic family. She provides suggestions for building loving relationships with friends, partners, and spouses.

Customer Reviews:

A MUST READ!.......2007-05-09

If you have ever felt abandoned, this book is for you. If you had a parent who was unavailable when you were younger (work, alcohol, drugs, divorce) this book is for you. If you are constantly struggling through relationship, after relationship, after relationship, this book is for you!

I can't say enough about it and how much it has helped me. I thought I was "over it" as my father had quit drinking and we have a wonderful relationship now; however, this book covers how you were brought up. Sure, I had a loving home and didn't not "want" for anything - but little did I know what the daily grind made me into. This is a MUST read!

I loved this book.......2003-07-21

If you are an ACoA (Adult Child of an Alcoholic), I recommed this book and all of the books by Janet Woititz. I've read many of them, they are easy reads and so informative. It is really helpful to learn about other's experiences and struggles, and to hear advice on how to help you now. My favorite part of this book is the chapter called "So, you love an ACoA..." and is good for your partner to read to help them understand things like why you might overreact to certain situations or have such a negative view of yourself. Don't be turned off by the old cover, mine looked like it was from 1960 or something, the book is not outdated by any means.

essential.......2003-06-26

as a partner to an ACOA this is a must read for anyone involved in this kind of relationship. easy to read, easy to understand, and full of AHA! moments. great information!

I learned about healthy relationships.......2003-03-01

I thought I knew about relationships and how to make one work and what it took to keep one going. I thought my past failures were a product of bad timing. I did not see why I went after the wrong people, prused bad situations and stayed when I should have left. This book opened my eyes and changed my perspective. It was brilliant.

One of just a few practical help books.......2002-04-05

Woititz has written several books aimed at helping "Adult Children of Alcoholics" (ACA). I recommend all of them. This book is based on the problems ACAs (and others from troubled homes) have in beginning and maintaining close relationships. She gives practical advice rather than the usual "cuddle your inner problem child" blather that some books give. All of her books are based on 10-12 things that most ACAs have in common. These things are listed at the front of each book and I recommend that each reader start there. If this list strikes a chord with you, then get the book! Among the list are: ACAs wonder what normal is. ACAs lie when they could just as easily tell the truth (I didn't believe this of me until a friend pointed out a few). ACAs have a hard time changing their course even when it's obvious that they should (I'm paraphrasing this one). Check it out!

Changing Course: Healing from Loss, Abandonment and Fear

Average customer rating:

Great insight and solutions for both addicted & family.

Changing Course: Healing from Loss, Abandonment and Fear
Claudia Black
Manufacturer: Hazelden
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Personal Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Adult Children of Alcoholics | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Substance Abuse | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Happiness | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Mental Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1568387997

Book Description

In Changing Course, the best-selling sequel to It Will Never Happen to Me, Claudia Black extends a helping hand to individuals working their way through the painful experience of being raised with addiction. "How do you go from living according to the rules-Don't Talk, Don't Trust, Don't Feel-to a life where you are free to talk and trust and feel?" Black asks. "You do this through a process that teaches you to go to the source of those rules, to question them, and to create new rules of your own," she explains. Using charts, exercises, checklists, and real-life stories of adult children of alcoholics, Black carefully and expertly guides readers in healing from the fear, shame, and chaos of addiction. Key features and benefits a proven seller by a trusted recovery author presents a clearly articulated process for healing excellent self-help resource for overcoming the experience of abandonment

Customer Reviews:

Great insight and solutions for both addicted & family........1998-10-05

Claudia Black has an inside track of what it feels like to be a family member in a family where addictive behavior is going on. She is able to write in understandable fashion the complex dynamics that go on in addictions and recovery. She never fails to understand the heart and soul and the sheer pain involved in addiction; she also provides insight and solutions for healing. Great work! All her work is very insightful. This is an author who cares about those who read her books.

Average customer rating:

Moved
I loved it so much I nearly cried!!
In the last few pages, I was in tears.
Glorious
50/50

Burned
Ellen Hopkins
Manufacturer: Margaret K. McElderry
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1416903542

Book Description

I do know things really began to spin out of control after my first sex dream.

It all started with a dream. Nothing exceptional, just a typical fantasy about a boy, the kind of dream that most teen girls experience. But Pattyn Von Stratten is not like most teen girls. Raised in a religious -- yet abusive -- family, a simple dream may not be exactly a sin, but it could be the first step toward hell and eternal damnation.

This dream is a first step for Pattyn. But is it to hell or to a better life? For the first time Pattyn starts asking questions. Questions seemingly without answers -- about God, a woman's role, sex, love -- mostly love. What is it? Where is it? Will she ever experience it? Is she deserving of it?

It's with a real boy that Pattyn gets into real trouble. After Pattyn's father catches her in a compromising position, events spiral out of control until Pattyn ends up suspended from school and sent to live with an aunt she doesn't know.

Pattyn is supposed to find salvation and redemption during her exile to the wilds of rural Nevada. Yet what she finds instead is love and acceptance. And for the first time she feels worthy of both -- until she realizes her old demons will not let her go. Pattyn begins down a path that will lead her to a hell -- a hell that may not be the one she learned about in sacrament meetings, but it is hell all the same.

In this riveting and masterful novel told in verse, Ellen Hopkins takes readers on an emotional roller-coaster ride. From the highs of true love to the lows of abuse, Pattyn's story will have readers engrossed until the very last word.

Customer Reviews:

Moved.......2007-08-15

I would like to respond to those of you who were offended by the use of a specific religion in this book. I assume those of you who were disturbed most were LDS yourselves. I understand Ms. Hopkins did not shed the best light on the faith, but that is what makes the book even more raw and emotional. The question I pose is this: If Pattyn had been Catholic, or Protestant, or Jewish, would you have felt better? Because that would be hypocritical, to say the least. I grew up in the LDS church, and although I was never subjected to what the character in the book was, I can assure you, there are evil and ignorant people in every religion, every culture, every class. Knowing the male "hierarchy" of the church only aids in understanding Pattyn's desperation and confusion over her own worth and importance. The LDS church does suppress the role of a woman, and I believe Ms. Hopkins chose the perfect institution to place Pattyn in. It only adds to her depth as a character, and makes the question of her own value even more believable. Although I was deeply saddened by the finale of the book, I again understood her reasoning-she truly believed there wasn't a place for her in the world, and that is what is truly heart-breaking about the book.

I loved it so much I nearly cried!!.......2007-08-06

I love this book!! Out of all her books, I could hardly contain myself for this one. The love story was so sweet, and the ending was kinda unexpected. I mean all her books have sad events or are just sad all together. But I hate how the ending left you with this BIG cliffhanger!! I think she's coming out with another book that will continue from where she left off. Which is good because I really want to know what happens.

In the last few pages, I was in tears........2007-07-28

I absolutely love Ellen Hopkins style of writing. It brings on two perspectives. I've read her other books. [Crank and Impulse - also great books] She is a great author and I can't wait for her new book Glass to come out in late August. I've already pre-ordered it.The way she writes the books actually paints a picture in your head about what these characters are really like. You feel like you're there, right along with them going through their tragedies and feeling their pain. I definately reccomend people to read her books :).

Glorious.......2007-07-17

Burned was a really good book. Its about a girl living a very controlled lifestyle. However like all families has is problems. In her case, an abusive controlling obnoxious father. When things begin to get overwhelming she is sent to live with her aunt. This is where she meets the love of her life, and when things really start to spiral. I think this a good way to show how some fathers are overbering. The only way to go is out. The things her father has done will horrify you. He doesnt understand anything about anything. He wont listen and truly hurts the people he loves. With all this background the daughter is still able to find love and that something that cant always be found. The format is similar to that of Crank but, takes the power of love to the next level. It makes you question whether or not you know or have known what is love. The sacrifices made will inspire you. This is a must read!

50/50.......2007-07-04

Well, it didn't seem very interesting at first-- heck, I had to force my self to read it. It took a long time to get into it, and it only got interesting when she finally went on her little trip. I'd say after that, things were actually somewhat interesting. I'm a bit more satisfied with this book then I was with her book "Impulse" but I have to say I'm wondering where the author of "Crank" has gone.

I am a bit dissapointed...

Adult Children: The Secrets of Dysfunctional Families

Average customer rating:

Not a very good book
Thank You
insightful
Nobody teaches this stuff. Read it!
wow

Adult Children: The Secrets of Dysfunctional Families
John C. Friel Ph.D. , and Linda D. Friel M.A.
Manufacturer: HCI
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Codependency | Mental Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Codependency | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Teenagers | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0932194532

Book Description

It is estimated that as many as 34 million people grew up in alcoholic homes. But what about the rest of us? What about families that had no alcoholism, but did have perfectionism, workaholism, compulsive overeating, intimacy problems, depression, problems in expressing feelings, plus all the other personality traits that can produce a family system much like an alcoholic one? Countless millions of us struggle with these kinds of dysfunctions every day, and until very recently we struggled alone. Pulling together both theory and clinical practice, John and Linda Friel provide a readable explanation of what happened to us and how we can rectify it.

Customer Reviews:

Not a very good book.......2007-01-09

Unless you are a child of an alcoholic or grew up in this type of environment, I would not recommend this book. There are other types of dysfunctional families but they are not discussed in as much detail as alcoholics.

Thank You.......2006-11-05

I have worked in mental health for about 4 years now. I am very good at what I do but came to realize that I have been too busy helping others rather than taking care of myself. All of this is pretty ironic to me. This book caused me to open my eyes and see that I have some issues that must be dealt with. This book has given me the motivation and courage to seek help. I never thought I was part of a "dysfunctional" family but could identify with many aspects of this book that really hit home and helped me understand what was going on a little better. As the author says it is very important to keep an open mind, be honest, and let go of our denial that acts only as a defense mechanism to cover up the underlying problem.

insightful.......2006-08-20

This very well written books offers insights about who we are as a person and why we are the way we are. I found the book very comforting because it reinforced what I was feeling inside. This book also gives advice about how to change. I think that even if you don't come from an "abusive" family you should read this book because I know that everyone can relate and learn from it in many ways.

Nobody teaches this stuff. Read it!.......2006-03-30

Excellent. A bit dated but timeless content. The beginning and end speaks to AA type meetings but it's not the main focus of the book, co-dependency is, which just about everyone deals with growing up. Quick read. There are a few short stories featuring animals that are sprinkled between the chapters, adding levity and a moment to escape and explore how the new information may serve you. My favorite, The Goose, whose parents told her not to leave the pond despite her feeling sick but she finally did leave and discovered she was right. The family unit unknowingly puts family members into positions and then keeps them there unable to see the dysfunction. Once one family member took action leaving the others behind the others eventually followed. If one family member is acting out and you don't know why it is not always the issue of the one who is acting out, look beyond, look to yourself first. Highly recommended.

wow.......2006-03-16

Illuminating and frightening. We all have baggage and until we find a place to safely store it, those closest to us are also burdened with it. The ideas in this book promote taking responsibility for our actions, looking into the motivations of those actions, and examining the source of our attitudes without placing blame on anyone. It's a great book about growing up to be healthy and facing one's demons without guilt. It's a relief to read this material and know that it's OK to feel a certain way, and even better to feel that healthy change is possible.

Average customer rating:

Wake Up Call!
Perfect Daughters
A cheesy way to earn a living
The Perfect Daughter
An epiphany of understanding!

Perfect Daughters (Revised Edition)
Robert J. Ackerman
Manufacturer: HCI
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Adult Children of Alcoholics | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Drug Dependency | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Substance Abuse | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Codependency | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1558749527

Book Description

This new edition of Perfect Daughters, a pivotal book in the ACoA movement, identifies what differentiates the adult daughters of alcoholics from other women. When this groundbreaking book first appeared over ten years ago, Dr. Ackerman identified behavior patterns shared by daughters of alcoholics. Adult daughters of alcoholics-"perfect daughters" -operate from a base of harsh and limiting views of themselves and the world. Having learned that they must function perfectly in order to avoid unpleasant situations, these women often assume responsibility for the failures of others. They are drawn to chemically dependent men and are more likely to become addicted themselves. More than just a text that identifies these behavior patterns, this book collects the thoughts, feelings and experiences of twelve hundred perfect daughters, offering readers an opportunity to explore their own life's dynamics and thereby heal and grow. This edition contains updated information throughout the text, and completely new material, including chapters on eating disorders and abuse letters from perfect daughters in various stages of recovery, and helpful, affirming suggestions from Dr. Ackerman at the end of every chapter. This book is essential for every one who found validation, hope, courage and support in the pages of the original Perfect Daughters, as well as new readers and every therapist who confronts these issues. Also includes: a comprehensive reference section and complete index.

Customer Reviews:

Wake Up Call!.......2006-11-04

I bought this book through a suggestion from a co-worker. When I received it at work in the mail, I opened the cover, checked out the chapters and turned to one in particular. I read only half the page and broke down crying. The truth is written in these pages. I have given a copy of this book to my sister. I recommend that if you are an adult daughter of an alcoholic parent, that you read this book. It ISN'T your fault, you are a valuable human being and it's about time that YOU take charge of your life. Get strong, face the truth, conquer your fears, find peace within yourself. No one says it's not going to hurt. Facing ourselves is the hardest part. Getting well is the reward. I can let go of the past and learn from it or I could go on holding a grudge. Good-bye Mom, sorry you were so sick from alcoholism. Hello new life, I am reborn. I am a wonderful human being. Thanks to this book I can say these things. It will take time to heal, but I have a new start because my eyes have been opened and I don't want to make the choices I've made in the past. I don't have to make those choices anymore, I am set free from the truth of my "brainwashing" of childhood.

Perfect Daughters.......2006-02-24

This book was so helpful with it's insight into the experience of having an alcoholic parent. It is written well, easy to follow and answers questions you didn't even know you had. I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to people like myself who are at the beginning of their quest for the truth and don't want to read a book that feels too clinical and complicated.

A cheesy way to earn a living.......2006-02-21

Having recently come to understand the role of my alcoholic parents' habits in my development as an adult, I have been seeking every possible source for information and strategies for dealing with my own behavior problems. I have found some wonderful sources -- Janet Woititz' books, for example. I had high hopes for this book, Perfect Daughters since I am such a freak but what I got was a book written in large print, at a level merely approaching 6th grade, that is 40% this man's clients' letters. His analysis is facile and offers nothing new. Yes, we all feel this way; yes we all share certain qualities, but anyone who's done only minimal research will discover this very soon. This book offers nothing new. I feel ripped off by the book's "promises", insulted by the writers' tone and plethora of marginally relevant quotations clearly pasted from quotes.com. Don't buy this book; check it out of the library and get what good you can from it. There is some there, but not $10 worth.

The Perfect Daughter.......2004-01-17

I am a child of an alcoholic Mother. I try very hard to avoid books that talk about adult children of Alcoholics becuase they usually make things sound very over technical and impersonal. I am not a very emotional person and I know the decisions I make in my life are because of my families alcoholic issues. However, this was a book that was not very hard to read and I would highly recoomend it. After reading the very first story and bawling my eyes out about that little family princess who never understood and was always trying to make it okay, I knew the book was for me to read. That's ME!!! That's ME!!! I kept saying over and over. Ironically I highlighted every sentence and passage that had to do with my childhood and feelings in the book and I believe I ended up with 90% of it highlighted. I couldn't help to think that someone had a hidden journal on my heart and feelings growing up. If only that person had stepped in when I was young what a difference it would have made. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!

An epiphany of understanding!.......2002-07-23

While my family was not one of staggering drunks and physical or overt verbal abuse, this books sheds light on why I feel the way that I do! It's easy to get turned off at first by the overt drunks experiences of many of the people's stories presented here if you yourself didn't experience that. The MOST valuable part of the book is a look at different personality traits that you may have developed during your not-so-normal childhood. This books points out the positive things that ACoA's have learned from their experiences and how to use those to our greatest advantage, while understanding and working on some of the traits we developed that are not useful to us as adults. I highly recommend this book - and that you read it several times!

The Complete ACOA Sourcebook: Adult Children of Alcoholics at Home, at Work and in Love

Average customer rating:

Always wondered?
Clarifies tendencies of Adult Children
Valuable Analysis

The Complete ACOA Sourcebook: Adult Children of Alcoholics at Home, at Work and in Love
Janet Woititz
Manufacturer: HCI
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Adult Children of Alcoholics | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1558749608

Book Description

When they were first released in the 1980s, Janet Woititz's groundbreaking works, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Struggle for Intimacy and The Self-Sabotage Syndrome, provided a new message of hope to adult children who had grown up in the shadow of alcoholic parents. Their message today is as profound and timeless as it was two decades ago. Now, in this complete collection, readers will learn again the insight and healing power of Janet Wotitiz's words. The Complete ACoA Sourcebook is a compilation of three of Dr. Woititz's classic books, addressing head-on the symptoms of The Adult Children of Alcoholics syndrome and providing strategies for living a normal life as an adult. Readers will find help for themselves: at home, in intimate relationships and on the job. They will discover the reasons for the way they think, believe and feel about themselves; ACoAs often feel isolated, have difficulty in relationships, in the workplace and in feeling good about themselves. Readers who are familiar with Woititz's work will find wisdom once again in this classic collection. Those new to ACoA will gain fresh insight into their behavior patterns and find an avenue for self-love and healing. Noted ACoA expert Dr. Robert Ackerman, author of the best-selling Perfect Daughters and Silent Sons, provides a foreword and explains why Janet Woititz's message will continue to help millions of readers for generations to come.

Customer Reviews:

Always wondered?.......2007-06-08

I'm 60+ years old and always wondered why in certain areas of my life I seemed to be just a 'cog off' in many of my thoughts and reactions to life. This book was one 'ah-ha' after another. I had worked through many of the 'glitches' on my own but it was a good feeling to finally understand from where they had come. Not in a blaming way, just in an understanding way. I would recommend it to anyone from an alcoholic family who 'wonders' why they react in ways that are not 'the norm' and have needs that they have spent a lifetime trying to fill without being able to.

Clarifies tendencies of Adult Children.......2007-01-14

Although this book was helpful, I also recommend "Life-skills for adult Children" by Janet Woititz, because this book is thin and contains specific advice.

Valuable Analysis.......2006-02-02

This was one of the most informative and helpful books I've read on the subject. It helped define the specific issues all ACOA's face and yet may not have realized were related to the experience.

I'd highly recommend this book to all ACOA's and all of their family, friends or lovers that want to understand their loved one.

Choices and Consequences: What to Do When a Teenager Uses Alcohol/Drugs

Average customer rating:

Excellent Resource for Parents with Teens
Choices and Consequences
Great Book!
Author Survival Meditations for Parents of Teens
Know a drug using teen? Read this book--You can help!

Choices and Consequences: What to Do When a Teenager Uses Alcohol/Drugs
Dick Schaefer
Manufacturer: Hazelden
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Alcoholism | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Drug Dependency | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Substance Abuse | Recovery | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

Teenagers | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Social Issues | Teens | Subjects | Books
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Accessories:

Health o Meter HDC100-01 "Grow with Me" Teddy Bear Scale for Babies and Toddlers

ASIN: 0935908420

Book Description

Alcohol and other drug use among teenagers is epidemic. Children as young as grade-school age are experimenting with mood-altering substances. One out of every four high school students drink to excess when they drink. Many teenagers are abusing alcohol and other drugs--and many will die prematurely if they don't get help. Choices and Consequences tells you precisely how you can help. Written for parents, teachers, family doctors, mental health professionals, school guidance counselors, social workers, juvenile justice workers, clergy, and anyone else who cares about teenagers, it describes a step-by-step process called intervention that you can use to stop a teenager's harmful involvement with chemicals. If you're worried about kids and alcohol or other drugs, you can do something. And you can start today.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Resource for Parents with Teens.......2006-12-10

I bought this book and read it before talking to a drug counseler. This was the #1 book recommended by them. I found it extremely useful, and helpful in that I felt much more in control after understanding the issues that teens face when facing an addiction. I particularly found the stage of use/abuse outlined in the book to be exactly like what the professional abuse counselers used. Highly recommend!

Choices and Consequences.......2006-11-15

This book tells you precisely how you can help and was selected by the board of directors for www.Parentshelpingparents.info as one of only two books recommended to our parents of teens. It describes a step-by-step process called intervention that you can use to stop a teenager's harmful involvement with chemicals.

Warren Pat Nichols
Founder
Parents Helping Parents, Inc.

Great Book!.......2005-07-17

This is truely an easy to read, step-by-step book. Explaining first the teenager's brain and thinking and what stresses a teenager has in their life, then going on to reasons for drug use, and practical, tangible ways to deal with it. This is a great book for any parent of a teenager to read, whether or not they have found their child trying drugs. It is a great "heads up" informative sourcebook. I esp liked the section on what special emotional needs that teens are looking to have fulfilled during adolescence. It is really helpful to read that as a parent of any teenager.

Author Survival Meditations for Parents of Teens.......2004-12-16

It's so important for parents to DO SOMETHING when they discover their teen using alcohol or other drugs. This no-nonsense approach is one of the best I've seen, and I've been counseling for over 20 years.

Know a drug using teen? Read this book--You can help!.......2000-05-18

Of all the books I've read on the subject of teenagers and drug/alcohol abuse, this is by far the best. The authors clearly spell out exactly why you're right to be worried and how to help. They explain how to conduct an "intervention" to cut through the teen's denial that drugs/alcohol is a problem for her or him. By presenting treatment options and contracts as her or his "choices," parents and others can also give up the sense of fear that leads to ineffectual efforts to control someone else's drinking or drug use. Once you let go and realize that--just as the teen you care about has a choice (including using)--you have a choice to impose consequences that range from mild to severe. The book is oddly reassuring and direct. A must-read for any parent or friend of a substance using teen.

An Adult Child's Guide to What's 'Normal'

Average customer rating:

Not Useful, Barely Comprehensible Format
Thank you for this much-needed resource!
Good, but not perfect.
My new ACA Bible
EXCELLENT resource!

An Adult Child's Guide to What's 'Normal'
John C. Friel Ph.D. , and Linda D. Friel M.A.
Manufacturer: HCI
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Codependency | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Teenagers | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1558740902

Book Description

You have begun to deal with the pain and trauma of being raised in a dysfunctional family and now you are ready to lead a healthy life. But: Do you know what healthy people do? Do you know what is "normal"? Do you know how to ask unwanted guests to leave? In An Adult Child's Guide to What's "Normal", John and Linda Friel have written a practical guide to living a healthy life. Your parents may not have been able to teach you social skills but it is not too late to learn them now. Read this guide and learn how to respond to the challenges, problems and traps that we are faced with daily.

Customer Reviews:

Not Useful, Barely Comprehensible Format.......2005-10-31

A year or so ago I bought a bunch of self-help books blindly online, with the hope they would represent their titles and be of some use to me personally.

Of them, this is the weirdest. It consists of numerous chapters that are only one or two pages long each! That alone is a very strange format, but the content tends to be very uninformative and strange. I'm definitely of the opinion that self-help theories should be elaborated on, that's why one buys a self-help book, isn't it? But the author rambles, introduces new buzzwords at will, and there is none of the sort of elaboration or system here someone who is looking for help would want. Save your money and look for leading recommended books for your problems.

Thank you for this much-needed resource!.......2004-09-11

Adult survivors of abuse have only the twisted guidance of screwed-up parents to guide them through life. Only the worst cases of abuse make the news. Some people don't even realize they were abused until they look back on their childhoods with an adult's wisdom and insight - a child often thinks the dysfunctional situation is normal and doesn't realize that this doesn't happen in all families - nor should it. Knowing what's normal is impossible for us - because we never knew what normal was! Essential for the adult survivor

Good, but not perfect........2004-08-24

If you've had a troubled childhood, this book will amaze you at its accuracy. It knows your problems, perceived "shortcomings", and more. It also gives you the insight into why it happens or why you continue to do it. However, it does NOT give you enough in the way of constructive methods of ridding yourself of these behaviors. While it maintains an upbeat and cheery tone for its entire length, there just isn't enough substance there for my liking.

A little more "how to" would have made this book a 5 star winner.

My new ACA Bible.......2001-04-21

Whoever said it was too cookbook hasn't appreciated the the value of having a thorough one at hand. I loved the Friel's approach. It is a bit harder on the ego than the Woititz ACOA book but this one includes ALL dysfunctions, and I know even after years in recovery I will still find valuable resources in this book to guide me along my bumpy journey. As one who has NO idea what is normal, yet somehow manages to function at the basic level in society, I definitely appreciated the simple yet thorough approach used here.

This book isn't another "blame the parents--give you an excuse" soother. It requires that we take responsibility for our adult lives, recovery, happiness, misery, relationships, dysfunctional patterns & our future. This book shows me exactly what healthy (they don't believe in the statistical normal, to them normal means emotionally healthy, which is a far more useful definition of the ambiguous term "normal" anyway) living means, looks-smells-tastes-feels like! I can use this book as a check-up to see if I'm on the right track and if not, follow the suggestions or get further help.

Most of all this book helped me to recognize that recovery isn't an overnight process, can't be done alone in isolation, that I'm human and mistakes are actually a GOOD and WELCOME experience and do NOT have anything whatsoever to do with my self-worth. This book even includes several chapters on how to respond to con artists, abusers & generally rude, mean or unhealthy people. How to deal with zingers, how to set healthy boundaries & protect ourselves & our healthy boundaries, I could go on for pages praising this book.

I've bought numerous other self-help books & this one was the best. The authors do suggest waiting until one has 2+ years of recovery before tackling this book. To hell with that. Read it now, and every step of the way on your journey. Start feeling better about YOU & your life right NOW, today. Good luck on your journey, happy discoveries to you.

EXCELLENT resource!.......2001-01-26

This book has been a Godsend! I've read it several times and am now using it in a bookstudy group for an e-mail group I run for people recovering from codependent relationships to sexual addicts. You might not think there was anything "wrong" with your family of origin, but this will help you pinpoint some of the reasons why you may make the bad choices you do in your life, what's healthy and "normal," and steps you can take to learn how to make healthy choices for yourself. Highly recommended! Very good, solid advice delivered in an easy-to-read format, not boring, not "clinical," but written for a wide audience yet not preachy or insulting. Great book!

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