Aims of the study: The purpose of the research was to investigate subjective insight into the experiences of children in families with addiction problems, and to consider risk or protection factors that affect their psychosocial development. Subjects and Methods: We used a qualitative approach and carried out semistructured interviews with 26 children aged 8 to 14 from families in which one or both parents struggled with addiction issues. More than half of the interviewees were girls (57,69%). Almost half of the children (47,06 %) reported on their experience of the father's addiction, 38,24 % of the mother's addiction, and less than 3 % talked about the addiction issues of their stepfathers, brothers or grandparents. To analyze the data, we used open two-level coding, text marking and forming categories. The main research, in which we answer two research questions: whether family is a risk factor in the psychosocial development of children in families with addiction issues, and whether family is a protective factor in the psychosocial development of children in families with addiction issues. Conclusion: Based on the children's statements in the research, for them the family is a risk factor in several areas and manifests itself in family secrets, taking on the roles of adults, negative parenting and health problems in the parents.However, we also confirmed the protective factors: secure attachment, strengthening of resilience, sources of strength that help children deal with situations and new challenges daily, and yes, the involvement of parents in various help programs for addiction problems affects the positive trend of changes in the experiences of children.

Keywords: risk factors, protection factors, addiction, family, children, psychosocial development

Dr. Nataša Sorko holds a PhD in the field of alcohol-related issues and has extensive professional experience in addiction, mental health, psychosocial support, and the family-related consequences of alcohol use. She is the professional director of programs at the Society Ray of Hope and is actively involved in the development and implementation of community-based support programs, therapeutic groups, and housing units for individuals and families facing alcohol-related and mental health difficulties.She also serves as the President of the Association of Treated Addicts’ Groups of Slovenia and is actively engaged in national professional and humanitarian networks. Her work focuses particularly on the subjective experiences of children growing up in families affected by addiction, stigma, barriers to help-seeking, prevention, recovery, and intersectoral cooperation.Dr. Sorko has contributed to professional and scientific discussions through research, conference presentations, educational programs, and advocacy work. She has also served as an editor of several scientific monographs and has been involved in the organization of international scientific conferences. Her expertise combines research, professional practice, and a strong commitment to humane, accessible, and community-based approaches to addiction and mental health.