What problems do the main characters face in the story, Crosses?

Crosses is loaded with social problems; it is almost a catalog of teen trauma. The characters in the book face, in addition to cutting, substance abuse issues. Nancy is also the child of substance abusers bringing in the entire issue of the effects of alcoholism on families. Nancy's behavior is, in many ways, almost textbook behavior for the child of alcoholic parents. Interestingly, despite her parents' constant admonishments, it is obvious to Nancy (and the reader) that their own house is not in order.