Interventions for Children of Alcoholics in South Korea : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Purpose: Children of alcoholics (COAs) tend to exhibit multiple negative outcomes while growing up. Nonetheless, Korean COAs have long been neglected in terms of clinical care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether existing interventions in South Korea were effective to them, and based on that, we suggested further directions for future interventions. Method: Through a systematic search, total 12 intervention programs which had been applied for Korean COAs were found. Results: The results showed the interventions for COAs in South Korea were effective for minimizing problems and improving health outcomes. In particular, the interventions were more effective for dealing with problems than dealing with emotional difficulties. Regarding the types of interventions, both group counseling therapy and art therapy were similarly effective. Conclusion: This study was meaningful regards to describe the present conditions and shortcomings of existing intervention programs for COAs in South Korea and provide directions to proceed for future interventions.