. , . , , . . . . , ., . , . . . , “” . , .The Savior or Hero is the “shining star” in the addictive family system. They look good, achieve well and never let the family down. They compensate for the shame the family feels around the addict by being the family superstar. They may cover for the individual, attempting to make the individual with the substance use disorder look pleasing to everyone. They may be in denial, overlooking major problems needing professional interference. They are also compensating for feeling empty and helpless themselves due to the dysfunctional family dynamics.The Mascot provides “comic relief” for the hyper-stressed family. Sometimes humor is tactlessly aimed at the individual suffering the substance use disorder. They use humor to minimize the pain in situations and to deflect hurt. This often becomes a maladaptive coping skill.The Lost Child hides out both physically and emotionally. They can be counted on to “not rock the boat.” They avoid conflict and suppress their emotions. They do not drain the limited emotional resources of the family, but suffer deeply.The Scapegoat is the person in the family who is blamed. The Scapegoat creates other problems and concerns in order to deflect attention away from the real issue. They are very successful at distracted the family and others from the addicted individual.The Enabler insulates the addicted individual by excusing their behaviors. They are unwilling or unable to hold the individual accountable for their actions. They smooth things over and run interference to keep the addict from experiencing the logical consequences of their poor choices. This behavior often springs from their desire to avoid shame and embarrassment. They will often stunt the addict’s ability to recover if they don’t change their patterns.Family members can assume healthy roles and behaviors to encourage and support recovery. For example, a parent may play the role of the supportive but firm parent who encourages their loved one to take thoughtful and positive action. Healthy family roles and behaviors include holding their loved one accountable for their behavior and creating rewards for positive choices.

Family members may attend support groups with their loved one or attend their own support groups for families of addicts. The creation of healthy boundaries and refusing to focus on the behavior of the addict are the building blocks of recovery for the family.

Healthy family roles and behaviors include holding their loved one accountable for their behavior and creating rewards for positive choices.

Family members may attend support groups with their loved one or attend their own support groups for families of addicts. The creation of healthy boundaries and refusing to focus on the behavior of the addict are the building blocks of recovery for the family.They compensate for the shame the family feels around the addict by being the family superstar. They may cover for the individual, attempting to make the individual with the substance use disorder look pleasing to everyone. They may be in denial, overlooking major problems needing professional interference. They are also compensating for feeling empty and helpless themselves due to the dysfunctional family dynamics.The Mascot provides “comic relief” for the hyper-stressed family. Sometimes humor is tactlessly aimed at the individual suffering the substance use disorder