An Apologetic Interpretation of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Timeless Wisdom, Outdated Language

Bibliographic Data

ID21645581
AuthorsIzaak L Williams (0000-0003-1920-1841, University of Hawai’i System, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, corresponding author)
Year2021
Volume56
Issue8
Pages1079-1094
Publication date2021-07-03
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueSubstance Use & Misuse (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1082-6084 • E-ISSN: 1532-2491
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/10826084.2021.1892134
PMID33970771
OpenAlexW3161715905
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited153

BACKGROUND: The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has proven to be an effective aid in recovery for many people with alcohol use disorder. While constructive criticisms of AA can be beneficial to the organization, other criticisms have merely served as rhetorical devices intent on discrediting the 12-step approach. OBJECTIVES: This paper examines six prominent critiques of AA, paying special attention to the premises, tone, and factual basis of the statements. Interpretations grounded in AA literature are offered to address claims or critiques around prominent themes, which are organized into two main classes: purported causes of alcoholism and factors maintaining alcoholism. RESULTS: Findings reveal tenuous statements in the AA literature that appear contradictory and thereby invite a misreading. These statements, some of which misrepresent the tenets of AA and its founders, underscore certain vocal criticisms that are not entirely unfounded. While many pages of the AA literature are imbued with timeless wisdom, even the most apologetic interpretations-distilled into benefit-of-the-doubt renderings-largely falter in defending the nature of the language that originated in the early 1900s at odds with 21st century understandings of alcohol use disorder. Conclusions/Importance: The AA literature essentially presents a valid target for critics, fueling resistance to this free community-based resource that may prevent people who could benefit from AA from seeking the help of the 12-steps

Alcoholics Anonymous · Constructive · Epistemology · Linguistics · Psychiatry · Rhetorical question · Sociology · Alcohol Consumption and Health Effects · Mental Health via Writing · Philosophy · Psychology · Social Psychology · Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

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