Digging Deeper: The Principles Behind AA's 12 Steps Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is synonymous with recovery. For decades, its 12-step program has provided a lifeline to millions, serving as a spiritual and practical guide to reclaiming their lives from the grip of addiction. Yet beneath the familiar words of the 12 steps lies a less publicized but equally transformative foundation: the spiritual principles that correspond to each step. Quietly embedded in AA’s literature and culture, these … [Read more...]
The Legacy of Joe and Charlie: An Enduring Guide to the Big Book Study
Few workshops are as vibrant and enduring as the Joe and Charlie Big Book Study. This renowned study has become a cornerstone for many AA members, offering a profound exploration of the Big Book (Alcoholics Anonymous), the foundational text of AA. The story of Joe and Charlie is not just about two men; it's about a movement that continues to inspire and educate those seeking recovery. The Genesis of Joe and Charlie The tale of Joe and Charlie begins in the early 1970s, when Joe … [Read more...]
History of the AA Preamble
History of the AA Preamble Not long ago, a single change was made to the AA Preamble to modernize it to non-gender-specific language. The change was simple: "Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women..." was changed to "Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people..." This is now the simplified, gender-approved update to the AA Preamble. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of PEOPLE who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their … [Read more...]
Analysis and comparison of three treatment measures for alcoholism: antabuse, the alcoholics anonymous approach, and psychotherapy
British Journal of Addiction, Vol. 50, 1953: By FRANCIS T. CHAMBERS, Jr. of the Philadelphia Hospital Institute In 1935 I joined the staff of the Institute of the Pennsylvania Hospital, and with the generous support of the senior staff members endeavored to work out a treatment plan to be available for those seeking help for acute problems. This plan had the then unique characteristic of being a positive, rather than a negative approach. By and large, at this period, most … [Read more...]