Well said. I think there are valid arguments on each side. What, to me, seems to hold back a lot of healthy discussion is a reliance on anecdotes by both sides.

Well said. I think there are valid arguments on each side. What, to me, seems to hold back a lot of healthy discussion is a reliance on anecdotes by both sides. It is very easy to assume that if you give an alcoholic father some money, he will spend it on alcohol. I am sure this is the case in some situations, but I think your point about applying resources well, especially when children are involved, is critical and true.