With Sobering Science, Doctor Debunks 12-Step Recovery (2014)
Sigh. As someone who’s had success in 12-step recovery since 1998, I find these sorts of “debunkings” incredibly disappointing. Firstly the measurement of success rate entirely misses the point. The 12-step view is that there isn’t a “once and done” cure. If I were to use an analogy it’s more like having lifelong diabetes. You gotta keep taking that insulin. It’s the continuity that forestalls the disease&#x2F; keeps you in remission.<p>Yes, 12-step programs have issues, and a big one is the whole “higher power”&#x2F;god thing. Maybe this is more of an issue in the USA which is far more religious than other countries. But even that is addressable for atheist 12-steppers. I should know - I am one.<p>If you are interested in a different take by a psychologist expert in the field, check out the writing of Dr. Patrick Carnes.<p><a href="https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.drpatrickcarnes.com&#x2F;" rel="nofollow">https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.drpatrickcarnes.com&#x2F;</a>