Families in the United States have become more complex- growing from the traditional nuclear family to single parent families, step families, foster families etc. Therefore, when a family member is struggling with addiction, the effect on the family may vary according to family structure. Families where addictions are present often times are hard to live in. Many individuals that come from homes with substance abuse problems may become traumatized to varying degrees by things they have experienced. Families living with addiction can be put under an unusual amount of stress. The effects of substance abuse can sometimes extend beyond the nuclear family, Extended family often may experience guilt, concern, embarrassment, anxiety, fear or even