Is Alcohol Abuse Hereditary? Why Alcoholism May be Inherited

A combination of genetic factors and the environment can impact the risk of alcoholism in your family. Learn why alcoholism tends to run in families.

Alcoholism & Genetics

Some underlying genetic issues can lead to alcoholism or increase the likelihood of drinking becoming a problem. Remember, research has shown that genetics are responsible for about 50% of the risk a person has for developing alcohol use disorder.

One of the genes that can play a role in alcoholism includes genetic components that impact alcohol metabolism. One particular genetic variation called the ALDH2*2 allele has been shown to reduce the risk of alcoholism by ten times. This genetic variant is common in Asian populations and is thought to explain the lower risk of alcoholism in this group.

While alcoholism and genetics can explain why the condition runs in families, it’s important to realize this isn’t the only reason. It’s also not guaranteed, as about half of the risk is due to factors aside from genetics.

Why Alcoholism Runs in Families

One of the most common questions people have surrounding alcoholism is whether or not it’s genetic, and if so, what happens when alcoholism runs in the family.

It’s difficult to directly answer the question of whether or not alcoholism and genetics go hand-in-hand. Alcoholism itself is a complicated disease, but there do seem to be genetic links involved.

For example, a review of 12 different adoption and twin studies found that genetics explain roughly 50% of alcohol use disorder developments, showing a strong link between alcoholism and genetics.

Additional research has shown that alcoholism is more likely among individuals whose parents abuse alcohol, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that alcoholism and genetics are always to blame. For instance, parental alcohol abuse can be linked to other adverse circumstances, such as abuse, neglect and poverty. These difficult situations may lead children to use substances to cope. If their parents drink heavily, children may also feel that alcohol abuse is normal and acceptable, which places them at a higher risk of alcohol addiction.

Living with an Alcoholic Family Member

Alcoholism is frequently called a family disease, and this is for many complex reasons. Living with an alcoholic can have negative consequences for the entire family. The person addicted to alcohol may have unpleasant symptoms when they drink:

• Become so preoccupied with their addiction that they can’t dedicate time to their spouse and children
• Act aggressive, dishonest or violent, making them difficult to get along with
• Experience negative impacts on their finances, work, school and other commitments, which can impact the people close to the alcoholic

These environmental factors are only part of the full picture. The interaction between alcoholism and genetics can impact whether or not a family member also becomes an alcoholic.

The First Drink

While alcoholism itself is a legitimate medical condition referred to by clinicians as an alcohol use disorder, it’s important to note that taking the first drink is a choice, particularly when alcoholism runs in the family. When someone decides to drink for the first time, particularly if alcoholism runs in their family, they are putting themselves at risk of becoming addicted.

One recent study even found that male children who lived with alcoholic parents took their first drink of alcohol at younger ages compared to those without alcoholic parents. Taking their first drink earlier puts them at risk of future problems with alcohol. Research has shown that those who begin drinking between the ages of 11 and 14 are significantly more likely to develop alcohol addictions than those who have their first drink at age 19 or later.

Related Topic: Is Alcohol a Drug

Environmental Factors

Some of the reasons that alcoholism tends to run in families have nothing to do with genetics. Instead, it’s about the environment alcohol creates for children. A child living with an alcoholic parent may experience a chaotic, disruptive and even harmful environment, and this can contribute to the development of a substance use disorder. A parent who abuses alcohol may be prone to aggression, violence, psychological problems and financial difficulties, which can create a painful experience for children.

If you’re worried about what happens when alcoholism and your genetics interact, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. First, avoid underage drinking: not only is it illegal, but it’s also been shown to increase your chance of becoming an alcoholic. It’s important that as an adult, you drink moderately, if at all. Moderate drinking is defined as no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one per day for women.

You can also speak with your doctor or a mental health care provider if you have concerns about the likelihood of becoming an alcoholic when alcoholism runs in the family. If you are seeking treatment for problem alcohol use in yourself or a loved one, The Recovery Village has locations across the country and is here to help. Contact ustoday to explore treatment options.

Editor – Melissa Carmona

Melissa Carmona puts years of writing and editing experience to work helping people understand substance abuse, addiction and mental health disorders. Read more

Medically Reviewed By – Jenni Jacobsen, LSW

Dr. Jenni Jacobsen is a licensed social worker through the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She has over seven years working in the social work field, working with clients with addiction-related and mental health diagnoses. Read more