Chemical dependency in women: a description of its effects and outcome on adequate parenting.

The purpose of this article is to define chemical dependency in women as a maladaptive response to inadequate upbringing. A description of the situational and psychological variables that characterize chemically dependent women is offered as well as attributes these women lack that are necessary for effective parenting. The dysfunctional child-rearing patterns and the consequential outcome for the children are also described. Suggestions for clinical intervention are provided.