Introduction
There are several significant strengths and weaknesses of the method applied by 12-Step mutual support groups. One of the advantages is the compatibility of the Alcoholics Anonymous approach with conventional, evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy (Lilienfeld & Arkowitz, 2011). It is also worth noting that this approach encourages people to use their own will and emotional resources to struggle with alcoholism (“12 Steps from the Original Manuscript,” 2020). The 12-Step mutual support groups’ method’s critical weakness is its unscientific nature regarding practices and specialists (AtlanticLIVE, 2015). It makes the Alcoholics Anonymous community isolated from other support groups and challenging to investigate. The almost century-old immutable and outdated theory of the approach is also can be considered as a drawback.
Effectiveness and Strength-based Language of Alcoholics Anonymous Approach
It is challenging to examine the effectiveness of the Alcoholics Anonymous approach due to its orthodoxy and uniqueness. Some researchers argue that 12-Step mutual support groups are effective or harmless to those who apply (Lilienfeld & Arkowitz, 2011). However, the beneficial effect is only seen in those with non-severe symptoms of alcoholism (Lilienfeld & Arkowitz, 2011). The author of this essay believes that the 12-Step method is strength-based because it involves using personal skills and emotional resources and collaboration with professionals.
Personal Thoughts on 12-Step Mutual Support Groups
Since the Alcoholics Anonymous approach to mutual support is heavily based on a religious aspect, namely Christianity, it might be beneficial to develop appropriate 12 steps for alcoholics in other religious communities. It would also be helpful to have at least one certified specialist in the 12-Step mutual support groups as a supervisor to correct insignificant aspects of the treatment process or prevent potentially harmful practices. The author of this essay believes that 12-Step mutual support groups are an effective treatment method for alcohol dependence that should only be used as a secondary or adjunctive treatment.
References
AtlanticLIVE. (2015). Ideas out loud: The false gospel of Alcoholics Anonymous/New York ideas 2015. YouTube.
Lilienfeld, S. O., & Arkowitz, H. (2011). Does Alcoholics Anonymous work? Scientific American.