Addiction, spirituality and 12-step programmes

Abstract

AbstractsDrawing on qualitative data, this article attempts to clarify the language of spirituality as used in relation to addiction and recovery. It explores what is meant by 'spirituality' in the context of 12-step programmes followed in the numerous anonymous mutual help groups which address the problem of addiction to a variety of substances and behaviours, and raises some of the most frequently cited problems with a 'spiritual' approach. It argues that wariness on the part of social workers (and other professionals) of 12-step programmes on grounds of their religious/spiritual dimension may benefit from reconsideration. It also suggests that social workers might be informed and empowered to support those individuals and families who chose to seek recovery through the 12 steps.

A daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition

“…The findings of the Higher Power Project [6,7] entirely support Kelly's answer 'yes' to the question of whether AA is religious, spiritual or neither; although spirituality may have more affective features than Kelly's treatment explores here. However, the root of the troubled interface between professional treatment and 12-Step mutual aid also lies in the failure of professional treatment to appreciate the relationship between what anthropologist Clifford Geertz described as 'experience near' and 'experience distant' concepts [8].…”

Ethical Considerations at the Intersection of Psychiatry and Religion

“…These are helpfully summarised by Wendy Dossett (Dossett, 2013) and they include the potential dangers of emphasising powerlessness over addiction (especially for women), as well as particular concerns regarding the Judeo-Christian religious emphasis, and the stigma associated with self-identification as an "addict" or "alcoholic". Each of these concerns is associated with valid counterarguments, but they may also impinge differently upon different people.…”

The changes of self-efficacy and perceived social support of addicted to alcohol women and men during treatment period

“…This research revealed that both drinking refusal self-efficacy and perceived social support were more strongly expressed after treatment in Minnesota 12-step program than before treatment. Furthermore, analysis of the scientific literature demonstrated that although 12-step program promotes the alcohol-addicted persons to recognize that they are no longer in control of their lives, it also gives them the belief that there is the power above them, which provides them with capacities to refuse alcohol (Dossett, 2013). Thus, it might be argued that Minnesota 12-step program is effective in increasing overall self-efficacy, drinking refusal self-efficacy and perceived social support of alcohol-addicted persons.…”