Behavior modification is a psychological method of treating maladjustment and for changing observable behavior patterns. Alcoholism is a condition of alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is now listed in the diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder. It is characterized by maladaptive pattern of drinking alcohol which results in negative effects on a person’s life. Effects of alcohol use disorder on families can include increased domestic abuse and violence. The effect that parental alcoholism can have in children can be significantly detrimental in a lot of ways. The sons and daughters of alcoholics seem to be at higher risk for experiencing more negative feelings, stress and alienation as well as aggression. There are multitude of negative psychological effects of alcohol use disorder, which include depression and antisocial behaviors. Alcoholism is considered a disease rather than a weakness of character or a chosen pattern of bad behavior. It is the third most common mental illness affecting more people in the world today than we can imagine.
Psychologist who are trained and experienced in treating alcohol problems can be helpful in many ways. Before the drinker seeks assistance the psychologists can guide the family or others in helping to increase the drinker’s motivation to change. The psychologist begins with the drinker by assessing the type and degree of problem the drinker has experienced. Then he uses the result of the assessment to offer the initial guidance to the drinker to seek treatment. Individuals with drinking problems improve their chances of recovery by seeking help early.