How Complex Trauma Shows Up in a Dysfunctional Family

When alcoholism and addiction are chronically present, the family system adapts.

Families who live in a constant state of fear, trauma, or anxiety will adapt to survive. Each family member takes on a role to maintain homeostasis within the family system. Homeostasis is a state of equilibrium, and when the problem is too vast or painful to address, the family strives to maintain their familiar state of normalcy by protecting the status quo —- Heroes remain heroes, peacemakers remain peacemakers, and scapegoats remain scapegoats. These patterns get passed on through generations unless someone has the courage to heal and break the cycle.