Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international organization dedicated to providing a support network for individuals aiming to overcome alcoholism.

Logo AA

Overview

Founded in 1935, AA operates based on its program of spiritual and character development known as the Twelve Steps. It encourages its members to abstain from alcohol and provides a supportive environment to share experiences and strength.

Principles and Practices

AA operates on a set of guiding principles known as the "Twelve Steps" and "Twelve Traditions". The former outlines a course of action for recovery from alcoholism, and the latter provides guidelines for AA's relations with the world and the organization's overall functioning.

Twelve Steps

The Twelve Steps are a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action for tackling problems including alcoholism, drug addiction and compulsion.

Twelve Traditions

The Twelve Traditions are guidelines to ensure the survival and growth of the many AA groups; they represent the collective experience of its members and provide a framework that allows the organization to function as a cohesive whole.

Meetings

AA meetings offer a safe space for people to share their experiences with alcoholism. Types of meetings include open meetings, which are open to the public, and closed meetings, which are only for those with a desire to stop drinking.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of AA in treating alcoholism is a subject of ongoing research. Some studies suggest that AA can be effective in reducing alcohol consumption and achieving sobriety, particularly for individuals who are highly motivated and have strong social support.

See Also

• Twelve-step program
• Alcoholism
• Substance abuse