The Impact of Parental Alcoholism on Children’s Rights

Abstract

The long-standing family relationship between parents and child is essential for continuous development of children that intern determines the future prospects of the young generation. In the initial stage of human life, they learn everything from their parents’ actions and behaviours. Thus children’s physical and psychological development mostly relies on their parent’s actions and reactions. However, the situation has changed due to the expansion of “Parental Alcoholism” which has become a societal issue. This study focused on the effects of parental drinking on children in terms of physiological and psychological functioning in order to identify the negative impact that caused an extreme social burden to the country. A Grama Niladari division area was sampled and a total number of 10 families which include 38 members selected with their consent to respond to the questionnaire. The findings were derived from the discussion with local authorities such as Police and Grama Niladari and also through the questionnaire. Collected details were examined using basic tools of Statistical Package for Social Science. During the analysis special consideration was given to children’s rights such as the right to life, right to shelter, right to have a safe environment, right to know and be cared for by his or her parents, right to family life, right to survival, protection, development and participation. Findings indicated that most of these cases were not reported due to fear of social isolation and lack of attention to alcoholism-related issues. It was also found that the majority of children who are members of these families suffer from physical and mental influences that affect their normal life including isolation from society. Hence, this study recommends supporting parents as primary guardians to adopt non-violent, positive parenting and reduce vulnerable situations. Further, it is recommended to implement the International Child Safeguarding Standards and enacting Laws and law enforcement.