Two generations of maternal alcohol abuse : impact on cognitive levels in mothers and their children

Abstract : Transgenerational effects of alcohol on mothers’ and children’s intellectual functioning has been examined in 22 families from very deprived environments. Their psychosocial outcomes and IQ level were evaluated in a follow‐up study on average seven years after they left the support group of a day‐care centre for young children; school data were collected for the offspring. A decrease of 18 IQ points due to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) was observed in the two generations (mothers, children). Accumulation of alcohol problems in the families still predicted school failure, even in absence of FASD. The possible gain of IQ points due to the decreasing of alcohol consumption during pregnancy could help them have better school experiences. Providing appropriate ongoing supports would be an important and practical approach to improve the conditions of life of these families.