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The neurotic character structure of the alcoholic personality

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Summary and Conclusion

Alcoholism in this paper has been treated as a symptom resulting from an underlying neurotic character structure. The alcoholic is the result of a faulty childhood and an ever-pressing and conflicting civilization, finally leading to an adult neurosis. Under the influence of such a drug, the alcoholic finds a temporary solution for his mental conflict and eases his means of establishing normal interpersonal relationships. However, this use of alcohol, which at first serves as a means of escape, builds up all the more conflict and anxiety; and finally a complete dependence on alcohol is established.

In conclusion, two case reviews were presented, illustrating the salient neurotic trends leading to adult neuroses associated with the problem of alcoholism.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Central Islip State Hospital, Central Islip, N. Y.

    Dominick A. Barbara M. D.

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  1. Dominick A. Barbara M. D.
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Barbara, D.A. The neurotic character structure of the alcoholic personality. Psych Quar 19, 503–515 (1945). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01572650

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01572650

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