Relationship between addiction and family

Family, a major institution located at the center of the society, has a primary role in the socialization and socialization of individuals. However, loss of healthy functions of the family causes many social problems that are subject of the science of social work. One of these social problems is addiction. Research shows that whereas some factors of family are protective of addiction, some could be risk factors as well. In this study, familial factors that push the individual to addiction have been focused and tried to be examined according to ecosystem theory. According to the ecosystem theory, any change in the individuals’ lives who make up the family system affects the system and therefore, the other individuals who make up the system mutually. This effect may lead to the deterioration of existing balance in the family structure and a search for new balance due to tension. Addiction can be one of the problems that family faces in seeking balance. As a result, the system theory suggests: a protective-preventive work with familiesin a micro dimension that includes the individual; multi-agency co-operating in a mezzo dimension; and continuing awareness increasing research to prevent addiction in a macro dimension. [Anadolu Psikiyatri Derg 2019; 20(0.200): 98-100]