The Opposite of Everything is True: Reflections on Denial in Alcoholic Families

A Tacoma, Wash., Catholic priest, a college teacher, a counselor of substance abusers and an alcoholic, Crisman spent more than a decade in bondage to liquor and tranquilizers. His problem was made more acute by the fact that he rarely got ``falling-down'' drunk and seemed always in control of himself. Now, aided by a therapy program for clerics and by AA, he looks at alcoholism with a clear eye and a devastating candor. The basis of the alcoholic's life, he writes, is denial: the individual simply will not confront the reality of his or her situation, which is a lifestyle defined by dishonesty, stealth, half-truth, rationalization, self-pity and growing isolation. Unfortunately, Crisman offers more caveats than prescriptions for a cure, and the little advice he proffers will likely be heeded more by those with strong religious faith than those with none. (Jan.)