Abstract The paper discusses how AlcoholicsAnonymous has been an organization that has provided a beginning for many alcoholics to end their abuse of alcohol. The paper describes how across the country there are hundreds of branches where individuals can become members merely because they have a desire to stop drinking. Although each website visited may present the AlcoholicsAnonymous Program in varying ways, the foundation of each program is the same.
From the Paper "Behavioral Medicine Associates (n.d.) contends that locating an initial AA meeting that will serve the needs of the individual can be a difficult task. This is because there are a number of different types of meetings, as well as both open and closed meetings ("Your"). Open meetings refer to initial AA meetings where alcoholics, family and friends may be allowed to enter. Closed meetings are strictly for members of AA."
Abstract This paper discusses AlcoholicsAnonymous (AA) and their twelve step program. The paper examines the different opinions of Neil J. Carr and Vince Fox who express different opinions about the effectiveness of AlcoholicsAnonymous. The paper discusses the pros and cons of each of their points of view and then briefly looks at other organizations that mirror AA's beliefs.
From the Paper "To be more specific, many AA meetings are mainly filled with men who are in the age bracket between 35-75 years old. Alcoholics were once viewed as uneducated, poor, old men. As we learn more about the disease we find out that alcohol affects every age, religion, sex, and race - it does not discriminate. You can not tell that a person is an alcoholic by looking at them. A thirty year old female doctor could be an alcoholic. If a person can get help by relating to someone of their own age, sex and religion, then it should be used to help them with any situation and that if breaking from the norms of AA to do this, and then it should be done. Alcoholism is cunning, baffling and powerful and it is very sad to watch anyone fall to this dreaded disease."
Abstract This paper provides an insight into AlcoholicsAnonymous, an international organization that was formed to help out individuals who have had drinking problems. It discusses how it is an example of a non-profit, non-professional organization, basically an organization that was formed to serve as a medium for individuals and people to have a ?helping hand. It describes its infamous Recovery Program and the Twelve Steps and examines how its success stems not from the organization, but from its members, who contribute their efforts in helping out troubled people deal with their dilemmas and difficulties.
From the Paper "AA's programs are effective because of two important factors that all humans need in order to properly "psyche" themselves up in trying to absolve and give up drinking alcohol. One is the non- professional environment that the organization gives to its members. The lack of hierarchy within the organization, that is, there is no leaders in each group; responsibility of leadership is found and tasked in every member. Instead of a hierarchy, wherein members are found at the bottom of the spectrum and leaders at the highest spectrum, the AA organization is radially- structured, meaning, there are no leaders in it, but the members are distributed and the circle gets larger as more and more people join or get involved with the organization's programs."
Tags: program, twelve, steps, environment, cognitive, complexity, empathy, AA
This paper discusses AlcoholicsAnonymous and its 12-Step Program and analyzes the relative value of such self-help programs and their usefulness to the nurse in planning client care.
Abstract This paper explains that AA has grown to be the single most influential organization in history that specializes in helping alcoholics recover from alcoholism; there are over 1 million alcoholic members in different groups in the United States and other parts of the world. The author experienced an AA meeting, which she thought was positive and hopeful because many people had been through very difficult times and needed the support and acceptance of the other people in the room. The paper concludes that learning more about AA gives, not only a deeper understanding of what works in treating addiction, but also additional insight into the inner workings of the addicted mind.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The History of AlcoholicsAnonymous and the 12-Step Program
Some Reasons for Success
Some Reasons for Failure
Significant Meeting Events
Thoughts and Feelings
Incorporating the Knowledge
From the Paper "There were several significant events at the AA meeting. It is quite common knowledge that members introduce themselves, but it is another thing to see the people with the courage to stand up and say, "My name is Bud and I'm a grateful recovering alcoholic." Several people told their personal stories, which also took great courage. Later, I found they called these stories drunkalogs, and some of them were quite depressing and eye opening, like the mother who used to be so drunk when her children came home from school that they had to make their own dinner, and they were embarrassed to bring friends over to the house."
This paper discusses AlcoholicsAnonymous, an organization created in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith for every person who is in need of help to quit drinking.
Abstract This paper explains that AlcoholicsAnonymous promotes the idea that alcoholism is a disease, but some professionals have issues with this concept because they argue that this premise means that a person is not responsible for their own drinking behavior. The author points out that some critics of AlcoholicsAnonymous argue that group members are so involved with AA that they have substituted the group for alcohol, but the dependence usually diminishes as the alcoholic finds more self-esteem and has a longer time in sobriety. The paper reviews the now popularized element of AlcoholicsAnonymous that sobriety, or any difficult task, must be faced "one day at a time".
From the Paper "Alcoholics Anonymous was created for every person who finds him or herself in need of help to quit drinking. The premise of AA is that it should be available to everyone and that it should exclude no one. Requesting funding is strictly against the AA guidelines. One of the most important aspects of AA is that group members are asked to tell their story to other members. The feeling that you are not alone is powerful to many alcoholics. Group members share their experiences and give hope to others who can see no way out of their alcoholism. This hope feeds many group members and some who hear it, may find the strength needed to change their life (Smith, 1993). Group therapy is used for many kinds of problems that people encounter and the similarities in situations create a bond between group members."
Abstract This paper uses AlcoholismAnonymous (AA) as an example to explore group techniques in operation. It examines how it is one of the 12-step programs that has become popular for dealing with addictions and other human problems and how there are currently AA meetings in all large cities and in many small towns. Through a combination of personal observations and a literature review, it analyzes the social and group dynamics that make the program so successful.
Outline
Introduction
Personal Observation
Group Dynamics
Minority Groups
Theory in Psychotherapy
From the Paper "Studies have shown, however, that there is widespread acceptance of, and belief in, AA in minority communities. For example, Caetano (1993) looked at both Hispanic and African-American communities, noting that large majorities of his subjects favored AA affiliation for substance abuse problems. However, Caetano also noted that prevalence estimates varied widely on the extent to which Hispanic clients or African-American clients would actually choose attendance at AA to deal with their substance abuse problems. Caetano indicated that Hispanics were actually more likely than either European-American or African-Americans to choose AA for dealing with their problems. In the AA membership survey itself, in 1996, membership was predominantly white, with only 4 percent of members identified as Hispanic and 5 percent identified as African-American (Alcoholics Anonymous, 1997)."
Abstract This paper investigates community resources that address addictions or addictive behavior. The paper focuses on alcoholism and the community resources known as AlcoholicsAnonymous and Al-Anon. A definition of alcoholism and drug abuse is presented. The paper discusses various sources of literature on community programs that address the addictive behavior.
From the Paper "The official website of alcoholics anonymous explains that the organization does not engage in or sponsor research (Information on Alcoholics Anonymous, n.d.). In addition, the organization does not make medical or psychological diagnoses (Information on Alcoholics Anonymous, n.d.) . The organization does not provide hospitalization or other forms of in patient treatment(Information on Alcoholics Anonymous, n.d.). The program does not keep attendance records or try to keep track of members(Information on Alcoholics Anonymous, n.d.). For this reason, the success rate of alcoholics anonymous is virtually unknown. There have been independent investigation on the estimated success rate of the program but because members are free to come and go as they please there is no evidence to support the findings of independent inquiries."
Abstract This paper discusses the problems of alcohol abuse and the high rates of alcohol consumption in China. It discusses the introduction of AlcoholicsAnonymous (AA) in China and describes the 12 step program that they utilize. Original sources are included with the paper.
Table of Contents:
Introducing Alcohol Facts and Myths
Contrary to Myths
Romanticizing Alcohol 12-Step Treatment
In China or Any Other Country...
AA Contentions
Appendix
From the Paper "In time, to address problems relating to alcoholism Alcoholics Anonymous meetings were initiated in China. Although these meetings were run similar to meetings held in the U.S., the psychiatrist who translated AA literature indicated the majority of China reportedly "do not believe in God and therefore use higher power in the third step". While a variety of definitions for higher power exist, it appears AA's spirituality proves more applicable to current Chinese society and philosophy than a Western-style religion. AA's focus and traditions have permitted the acceptance of AA in China, while it helps suffering alcoholics achieve and maintain sobriety. (Smith, 2004, p. 3)"
Abstract This paper explains that it is important to recognize how the more known and dangerous drugs influence neurochemistry. For example, heroin increases the release of dopamine by increasing the firing of dopamine neurons. The postsynaptic neuronal receptors are then inundated to levels far higher than normal; therefore, heroin usage is associated with the feelings of mood elevation and euphoria. The author points out that drug and alcohol metabolites, which are residual substances of drugs that remain during the drug and alcohol metabolism that takes place in the liver, are implicated in problems during withdrawal, remission, and craving. The paper recommends that treatment modalities should include pharmacotherapeutic as well as psychological and emotional support structures, including family involvement and 12-step programs such as AA (AlcoholicsAnonymous), NA (Narcotics Anonymous) and CA (Cocaine Anonymous).
From the Paper "From the above therefore, a new motivational perspective of drug abuse emerges. It can be classified as two fold: extreme motivational strength and extreme motivational toxicity. Motivational strength is associated with the extent to which addiction can replace other basic motivations such as food, sex and the need to maintain a career. Motivational strength is also associated with to what lengths an addict will go to procure drugs. The psychosocial ramifications (as mentioned above) are a consequence of motivational strength. Motivational toxicity, on the other hand, can be defined by how it can be disruptive. Cocaine affects the user differently than heroin and methamphetamines. Typically, addiction can be towards anything. Most people are addicted to mild sedatives, cigarettes (though some aver that it is more addictive than cocaine), coffee, shopping, chocolate and gambling. Any of these addictions can be measured based on motivational strength and motivational toxicity."
Abstract A paper which argues that alcohol consumption at a young age directly influences a person's way of life and lifestyle in his future. The later a person begins alcohol consumption, the better future they may have. The paper explores why people take up drinking alcohol and the signs of alcoholism. Different treatment for alcoholism, including AA, are discussed.
From the Paper "The effects of alcohol on a person, especially at a young age, blatantly correspond to the actions and outcome of this person in the future. For example, a person who does not touch alcohol until well after his twenties has a much more successful lifestyle than the person who is introduced to alcohol in his teenage years does."
Abstract This paper concerns the effectiveness of alcohol therapy programs, including but not limited to AlcoholicsAnonymous, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, classical conditioning and community intervention programs. It first examines the history and statistics relating to alcohol therapy programs and then draws general conclusions from the evaluation of such programs. The paper discusses the best options available for alcoholics, but also shows that there are still many improvements to be made in this field.
From the Paper "The history of alcohol therapy programs remains unheralded. Alcoholics Anonymous may be one of the oldest therapy programs, but that does not make it the most successful. For example, the average member of AA has been dry for five years. However, this doesn?t include the alcoholics that went to their first meeting, and immediately afterwards stopped in at the nearest bar. Moreover, five years of abstinence might seem like a good start, but when combined with other programs, AA can be even more beneficial. For example, Montana, which ranks 9th in overall alcohol consumption, has recently raised its alcohol abstinence success rate above the national average. They have done so by consistently opening the door to new possibilities and new programs, some successful, some not. For example, once admitted to a hospital, a patient is not released until their counselor is satisfied with their improvement. Instead of unreliable drugs, they counsel each patient individually, with respect for their situation. Once released, a patient is sent to begin AA meetings, of which they now stand a much greater chance of continuing (Newhouse, 1999)."
Abstract The paper introduces alcoholism, defining it as a disease that is chronic, incurable and causes the person to need the alcohol in order to function. The paper discusses symptoms of alcoholism and then proceeds to study forms of treatment such as detoxification and AA. Finally, the importance of the social worker's role in alcohol treatment is discussed and stressed.
From the Paper "One thing that has not been spoken about is how differently a patient will react to treatment if the patient is also suffering from one of the aforementioned conditions. An alcoholic with an addiction to cocaine will certainly react differently in a detox situation than an alcoholic with a nicotine addiction. Not to mention the possible presence of some type of liver damage, or other serious medical problem that could harm the patient far more than the treatment may be prepared for. Caseworkers face many life-altering decisions when it comes to the management of such cases of alcoholism and their comorbidity. It seems to be so common that research is really needed in order to aid workers recognize all of the possible complications, as well as the more appropriate treatment plan for these patients. (NIAAA, 1991)"
Abstract The paper covers the different methods used for treating alcoholism. It shows that before beginning any treatment, the alcoholic must pass the critical phase of accepting that he has an addiction - without which no treatment will be successful. The paper investigates various methods from the most popular - AlcoholicsAnonymous- through to antabuse, the "quick-fix" drug used to interfere with the way the body takes in alcohol, and touches on alternative methods such as meditation and hypnosis.
From the Paper "Individuals who have become dependent upon alcohol will inevitably suffer conflicts and problems which require psychological treatment. Individual psychotherapy has become increasingly popular as a treatment of alcoholism, and is designed to assist the alcoholic to come to terms with, and understand, the causes of their dependency and to identify behaviors which may require modification. The commonest causes of seeking solace from a bottle include, work related stress, conflict within personal relationships, or financial problems, and individual psychotherapy aims to enable the alcoholic to understand and deal with these issues, without resorting to drink. The long-term objective of this treatment is to bring about changes in thought processes and behavior, which will provide the alcoholic with an insight into their presently distorted thoughts and attitudes, and allow them to address these issues."
Abstract This paper looks at the problem of alcoholism and examines the best way to interview an alcoholic in order to help them. The paper defines the term 'alcoholism' and examines different treatment programs. Also, an example of a comprehensive initial chemical dependency assessment interview covering a wide range of issues linked to alcoholism is included. The paper then discusses the purpose of such an assessment and how it can be used to benefit the client.
From the Paper "Chemical dependency can be defined as the continued use of mood-altering chemicals such as alcohol or drugs, despite harmful consequences and without the ability to stop or control the use. It is a primary love relationship with a mood-altering chemical that systematically changes the way a person thinks, feels and behaves. Using drugs becomes more important than interpersonal relationships, performance at school or work, planning for the future, or anything else. Evans (1990), reminds us that Father Martin, a famous priest in the addictions field, describes the criteria for identifying alcoholism simply as, "What causes problems is a problem." If drinking and using drugs are causing problems in someone's life and the individual keeps drinking and using drugs in spite of the problems, then that person has a problem with drugs and alcohol."
Abstract The paper examines society's attempt to find the true definition of alcoholism in order to find the right treatment. The author argues that alcoholism is a disease which affects the whole family but is viewed as a moral weakness, thus causing problems for the drinkers and their families.
The paper discusses various definitions of alcoholism and how they differ within the epidemiology, sociology, medical and legal fields.
From the Paper "In the past physiologists and medical doctors felt that alcoholism was an untreatable disease. Alcoholics where thought to be uncooperative and unwilling to help themselves. Alcoholism is also known to influence chaotic and violent behavior which if not stopped leads to isolating the person from society. This deadly disease is more associated and responsible of prison sentences than any other illness. Florida and other states have created statues that if broken can result in prison sentences including life. Drunk driving is either one of, if not the number one cause of death in the United States. Not only have the laws tried to prevent alcoholism's desolate nature but also doctors stressfully research the illness."
