INTRODUCTION:
The use of alcohol has been present since time immemorial.
The problem of alcoholism is not just related to the alcoholics but
Also the lives of those around them are adversely affected especially the
Wives leading onto social, occupational and psychological damage (24).
Alcohol dependence is a complex behavior with far reaching
Harmful effects on the work, family and society.
The most negatively affected are the spouse and children of an
Alcoholic. However less attention has been focused on them so far (25).
There are a considerable number of anecdotal reports and research
Findings that suggest that individuals who are married to alcoholics have
Poor physical and mental health (4).
The wives are too close to the problem and don’t see how they are
Enabling the user.
Two models have dominated the literature on alcoholism and
Marriage.
Personality profile of the wives.
Behaviour of them in reaction to their husband’s
Drinking.
These wives suffer from various stressors due to their husband’s
Alcohol dependence. They seek assistance to cope with the impact of the
Husband’s drinking (34).
This study is an attempt to study certain aspects of the wives of the
Alcoholic’s mental health and compare them with the normal population.
The wives of the alcoholics are an ‘Unknown Universe’ in Indian
Society. Clinical work and some research suggest that partner responses
To drinking may either facilitate or hinder treatment acceptance and
Recovery efforts (29). Hence the reason for taking up this study is
Justified