Common Roles Taken on by Teens

Often times in a family where either one or both parents have an alcohol-related problem, a child may develop a certain way of coping. These ways of coping can come across as taking on a role in the family in order to protect YOURSELF as well as YOUR parent/s. Below the common roles are described. Note that these are common and normal, but not healthy. To learn healthy ways of coping, check out “Positive Coping Strategies”.

The Hero

The Hero attempts to make the family look good; trying to hide what is happening in the home. The Hero will often overachieve and strive for success. On the outside, the Hero looks like he/she is thriving… on the inside though he/she is often isolated and struggles to express his/her feelings.

The Lost Child

The Lost Child normally withdraws from the situation at home physically and/or emotionally. This does not mean the child does not care; in fact the child cares deeply, but will check out in order to avoid trouble and drama caused by the parent’s drinking problem.

The MAscot

The Mascot is the joker of the family. He/she will keep things very superficial, trying to hide the pain and the hurt from the real situation in the home. The Mascot is very good at distracting others with funny moments or behaviours, but inside he/she often feels fearful, embarrassed and/or angry.

The Caretaker

The caretaker tries to make everyone happy and feels personally responsible for maintaining peace within the family. Sadly, the Caretaker can unknowingly take responsibility away from the parent by taking over the problems and all household and family duties. This can often keep the drinking behaviours going, which is exactly what the Caretaker is trying to avoid.

The Scapegoat

The Scapegoat acts as a diversion, keeping the attention away from the problem-drinking parent. The Scapegoat will seek attention and engage in negative behaviours to try and stay in the spotlight. The Scapegoat normally gets in trouble at work or school and often partakes in high-risk behaviours like drugs or alcohol.