They won't follow any house rules

Situation Recognition

Addiction often eliminates respect for family rules and structure. Normal household expectations become battlegrounds, and parents feel they've lost control of their own home environment and family functioning.

Michael Wilson's Insight

"Your house, your rules—regardless of addiction status. When someone cannot follow basic household rules, they cannot live in your household." Home structure protects family functioning and models expectations for recovery.

Comprehensive Guidance

Essential house rules during addiction:

• No substances or paraphernalia in the home
• No stealing from family members
• Respectful communication—no threatening or abusive behavior
• Contribution to household through work or responsibilities
• No bringing dangerous associates to family home

Rule enforcement strategy:

• Communicate rules clearly with specific consequences
• Follow through consistently regardless of protests
• Don't negotiate rules during manipulation
• Link housing privileges to rule compliance
• Make living at home a privilege earned through respectful behavior

Implementation Steps

1. Establish clear, specific house rules with predetermined consequences

1. Communicate rules when emotions are calm, not during tension

1. Follow through immediately when rules are broken

1. Don't negotiate or make exceptions during emotional appeals

1. Link continued housing to consistent rule compliance

What to Expect

Testing of rules will intensify initially to see if you'll follow through. Consistency in enforcement typically reduces rule violations because consequences become predictable. Many people choose treatment when house rule enforcement makes addiction uncomfortable.

Professional Resources

East Point Behavioral Health: (855) 887-6237 - Family boundary setting and house rule guidance

Crisis Resources: 988 or 911 if rule violations create safety concerns