Children of alcoholics (COAs) have been found to be more vulnerable to emotional and behavioral problems. This study had the aim to assess comparatively children of alcoholics and children of nonalcoholics. The Human Figure Drawing Test was used to assess their cognitive and emotional aspects. To assess mother's behavioral aspects the Rutter's Scale was used. Subjects: 20 children of alcoholics (COAs) and 20 children of nonalcoholics (Non-COAs), 9 to 12 years of age, enrolled at elementary school. Each group was composed of 10 boys and 10 girls. Results: children of alcoholics showed difference statistically significant in emotional and behavioral aspects. They showed: shyness, insecurity and low self-esteem. According their mothers opinion they are: impatient, irritable, agitated, disobedient and dependent. The girls of alcoholics showed more emotional and behavioral problems. They showed to be more vulnerable than the boys of alcoholics regarding emotional and behavioral aspects.
infantile psychiatry; alcoholics
