Alcoholism and Marriage: Characteristics of Male Alcoholics Whose Wives Have Drinking Problems

In this study 1,082 Navy enlisted men (mean age = 30) admitted to alcohol rehabilitation facilities were divided into two groups: those who reported that their wives had drinking problems (Group 1), and those who reported that their wives did not have drinking problems (Group 2). Having a wife with a drinking problem was significantly correlated with 10 variables which were grouped into three categories: physiological symptoms, recognizing the problem and seeking help, and behavioral difficulties. The men in Group I had more severe problems due to drinking than the men in Group 2. The implications of the findings for treatment and continued research are discussed. (Author)