Previous studies had revealed that 70 percent children of alcoholics develop compulsive behaviour about either alcohol, drugs, food, sex, work or gambling, while a half ended up marrying alcoholics.

According to the new study by medical journal 'Priory' that reviewed existing data on crime, abuse and alcoholism, the children of alcoholics were four times more likely to be addicted to drink and there was a risk of drug and gambling problems, reported the online edition of BBC News.

Studies also showed that a third of daughters of alcoholics experienced physical abuse and a fifth sexual abuse - up to four times higher than in non-alcoholic homes, the Priory said.

Many of the children of alcoholics, even those who would perhaps have been withdrawn, could grow up to be likeable, kind and intuitive, it said.

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