Using Alcoholics Anonymous vs. Abusing Alcoholics...

Using AA vs. Abusing AA This paper will try to explain the different views of how and why Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step programs are accepted and rejected as effective tools in treating alcoholism and other addictions. The articles reviewed contradict the others’ opinion. First, we see that supporting the 12-step programs with a degree of involvement both the doctor and patient will see better results in treating the addiction. The second view will show that 12-step programs can be used as â€Å"self-help† treatment and must be used in conjunction with other forms of rehabilitation. When AA and other 12-step programs are not used with other forms of treatment, the patient tends to become codependent on the group. Doctors Peter†¦show more content†¦Jarlais simply notes, â€Å"†¦these ideas are not supported by the usual framework of formal scientific research.† (Jarlais. 1994) Dr. Jarlais’ statement would surely raise eyebrows at the next research convention but is that what we can base the tremendous acceptance and success rate of AA on? In my personal experience, I can agree with the supporters of the 12-step method. The reasons are many but one comes to mind each time I read the opposing views – Are we complex human beings or lab rats? Is it necessary as recovering addicts and psychodynamic therapists alike to use a scientific approach to confirm the resounding results? AA works and if personal response or â€Å"storytelling† along with the admitting that we are powerless over our addictions helps, well, that is enough proof for me. Terry M. states, â€Å"Our primary goal is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.† (Terry M. 1998) This statement is enough proof that I believe the people who attend AA are more useful than any scientific influences. A Dr. and a patient formed AA; this alone also shows the i mportance to respect what has been a foundation to recovery – the honesty and no judgement policy of recovery. Issues of brainwashing, codependency, and let us not forget the overwhelming popular issue of â€Å"never recovering†. Dr. Jarlais explains that the mere acceptance of this policy is proof that the supporters are contradictory about the influence of theShow MoreRelated The Problem of Teen Alcoholism in the United States Essay3674 Words   |  15 Pagesdefined as a disorder characterized by the excessive consumption of and dependence on alcoholic beverages, leading to physical and psychological harm and impaired social and vocational functioning. Alcohol is a huge problem in high school and in college. Twenty-one may be the legal drinking age, but some how minors find a way to get a hold of alcohol. People as young as fifteen are able to get their hands on an alcoholic beverage. Alcohol is said to be the chosen drug among high school and college studentsRead MorePsy Evaluation Essay11057 Words   |  45 Pagestraining B. use of educational tapes, lectures, and films C. motiva tional enhancement strategies D. cognitive therapy ANS:B PG39 18. According to the NIAAA (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism), about how many previously diagnosable alcoholics matured out of their dependence? A. none B. only a fraction C. one third D. most ANS:C PG39 19. According to Hester and Miller’s empirical research, the highest treatment effectiveness scores were obtained for A. harsh confrontational techniquesRead MoreMarketing Mistakes and Successes175322 Words   |  702 Pagesseven new cases to replace seven that were deleted from the previous edition. Some of the cases are so current we continued updating until the manuscript left for the production process. We have tried to keep all cases as current as possible by using Postscripts, Later Developments, and Updates. A number of you have asked that I identify which cases would be appropriate for the traditional coverage of topics as organized in typical marketing texts. With most cases it is not possible to trulyRead MoreFundamentals of Hrm263904 Words   |  1056 PagesWORKPLACE ISSUES: A Special Case of a Career: Entrepreneurship 222 Enhancing Your Career Summary 224 Demonstrating Comprehension: Questions for Review 224 Key Terms 225 226 HRM Workshop 223 WORKPLACE ISSUES: Forced Rankings—Are They Working? 242 Using Achieved Outcomes to Evaluate Employees 243 Common Elements in MBO Programs 243 Does MBO Work? 243 Linking Concepts to Practice: Discussion Questions 226 Developing Diagnostic and Analytical Skills 226 Case Application 9-A: A Fudge Career 226 Case