In this important study of women with alcoholic husbands, Asher
vividly describes the process of coming to terms with a profound
crisis in one's private life. From interviews with more than fifty
women, all of whom were participants in family treatment programs,
she assembles a composite picture of the experiences shared by
wives of alcoholics. The testimony given by these women illustrates
the steps they must take to regain control of their lives. The
first step is figuring out what is happening and deciding what to
do about it. Asher argues that the vogue of using the label
"codependent" may actually hinder rather than facilitate emotional
health. Led to think of themselves as addicted to their husbands'
addictions the wives of alcoholics may be persuaded that their own
problems can't be overcome. But, Asher shows, these women can take
command of their lives.
Originally published in 1992.
A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the
latest in digital technology to make available again books from our
distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These
editions are published unaltered from the original, and are
presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both
historical and cultural value.