Comparison of Attachment Styles, Family Functioning and Locus of Control in Individuals with and without Alcohol Use Disorder

Abstract

This study aims to examine the variables of attachment styles , family functioning, and locus of control in individuals with and without alcohol use disorder. The 54 participants, including 51 male and 3 females with alcohol use disorder between the ages of 18-60s were chosen from the outpatients of xx service, the attendants of xx meetings, and the people referred by them. The control group consisted of 60 participants who were similar to the study group in terms of age and gender variables, without alcohol use disorder and psychological disorder. Data were collected through a questionnaire including Sociodemographic Data Form, Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST), Experiences in Close Relationships - Revised (ECR -R), Family Assessment Device (FAD), and Rotter’s Locus of Control Scale (LCS). In the results of the study, it was found that the participants with alcohol use disorder had a significantly higher ECR-R anxiety and avoidance score, and LCS score than the control group. Participants with the alcohol use disorder had a considerably lower FAD score than the control group. Finally, the effects of the applied scales on alcohol addiction are analyzed and it was concluded that the scores of FAD and LCS had a statistically significant effect on alcohol addiction. Accordingly, an increase in the FAD score by one unit reduces the alcohol addiction risk by %95, while an increase in the LCS score by one unit increases the alcohol addiction risk by %31.

Keywords

• alcohol use disorder
• attachment styles
• family functionality
• locus of control