Chapter 17 Flashcards
What is the largest mutual help network for addiction recovery?
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), with over two million members and 115,000 regular meetings worldwide.
Why is ‘mutual help’ a more accurate term than ‘self-help’?
Because these groups emphasize reciprocal support rather than trying to recover alone.
How do mutual help groups differ from formal addiction treatment?
They are not ‘treatment’ or ‘therapy’ but serve as an alternative or adjunct to formal treatment.
Why are mutual help groups considered an important resource?
They offer continuing care for lasting change and are available without constraints of insurance approval or identifying disclosure.
What are some common preconceptions about AA?
Some praise it as highly effective, while others are skeptical or critical of its methods.
What dimensions differentiate mutual help groups?
They differ by addiction focus, leadership structure, target audience, spiritual emphasis, long-term engagement, ego deflation vs. self-enhancement, and abstinence philosophy.
What is the key distinction within 12-step groups?
Between the ‘12-step program’ (structured beliefs and steps) and ‘12-step fellowship’ (social interactions and support among members).
How do 12-step meetings operate?
They last 60-90 minutes, may be open or closed, and follow different formats such as step study, speaker meetings, or discussion meetings.
What are common myths about AA?
That it rejects other treatments, discourages medication, only works for religious people, requires therapists to be in recovery, pressures attendance, and lacks scientific evidence.
What has research found about AA attendance?
More frequent attendance is associated with higher abstinence rates and better long-term recovery outcomes.
How does AA help people recover?
Through spiritual awakening, increased coping skills, motivation, self-efficacy, and supportive social networks.
How can professionals encourage mutual help participation?
By introducing clients to groups during treatment, encouraging sampling of different meetings, and providing structured support for attendance.
What is Twelve-Step Facilitation (TSF)?
A professional therapy that helps clients engage in AA, reviews core beliefs, and supports long-term involvement.
What are religious mutual help groups?
Groups like Overcomers Outreach, Alcoholics Victorious, and the Calix Society that integrate 12-step philosophy with religious teachings.
What are secular mutual help groups?
Groups like SMART Recovery, LifeRing, Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS), and Women for Sobriety (WFS) that provide alternatives to 12-step programs.
