The relationship between choice of college major and prevalence of adult children of alcoholics.

This study was designed to clarify the possible relationship between choice of college major and prevalence of parental alcoholism. A total of 190 occupational and physical therapy (OT/PT) students were surveyed using the Children of Alcoholics Screening Test. Results were compared to those from a group of 211 marketing, mixed, and undecided majors. The allied health OT/PT group reflected a 33% prevalence of parental alcoholism. Furthermore, a significant difference was found between the allied health and nonallied health groups. Awareness of this prevalence can help faculty identify students who are adult children of alcoholics and refer them for help before potential problems arise when they become helping professionals.