by Charles L. Whitfield, M.D.

If you are seeking understanding of the impact your past has on your present, this book is an essential addition to your self-help library. As Dr. Whitfield explains, the "Child Within" refers to that part of each of us which is ultimately alive, energetic, creative and fulfilled; it is our Real Self—who we truly are.

In this book Dr. Whitfield describes a journey of discovery and healing. He offers gentle guidance through the fear, confusion, and unhappiness that has become a legacy for so many adults who were raised in an alcoholic or dysfunctional family. This book begins where many others describing adult children of alcoholics have left off. Rather than focusing only on the alcoholic family, it defines and fully develops the concept of adult children of dysfunctional families.

Members of the 12-Step self-help groups will find this book especially useful in their personal recovery work, both within and outside of their meetings.