Twelve Step Programs - Revision history

SysopJ at 21:53, 15 November 2023

2023-11-15T21:53:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:53, 15 November 2023
Line 75:		Line 75:
	This author, a psychotherapist who worked primarily with clients having addictions, "contend[s] that the growing problem of addiction in this society is a symbol of spiritual bankruptcy, emotional emptiness, and lack of human relatedness that affects increasing numbers of people. ... Increasingly I believe that spiritual hunger may be at the basis of most of the ‘disease' of addiction."<ref>ibid.</ref>		This author, a psychotherapist who worked primarily with clients having addictions, "contend[s] that the growing problem of addiction in this society is a symbol of spiritual bankruptcy, emotional emptiness, and lack of human relatedness that affects increasing numbers of people. ... Increasingly I believe that spiritual hunger may be at the basis of most of the ‘disease' of addiction."<ref>ibid.</ref>

	Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of [[Quest (periodical)\|''Quest'']] magazine (the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/~~1404~~.</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."		Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of [[Quest (periodical)\|''Quest'']] magazine (the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at [https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/a-practica-path-to-theosophy-aas-twelve-steps this link].</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."

	It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew [[Dora van Gelder Kunz\|Dora Kunz]], President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. ''A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer''. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.		It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew [[Dora van Gelder Kunz\|Dora Kunz]], President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. ''A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer''. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.

Linda Dorr: /* History of 12-Step Programs */

2022-07-21T19:05:31Z

History of 12-Step Programs

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:05, 21 July 2022
Line 8:		Line 8:
	Bill W. had been in Ohio on business when he met Dr. Bob. After a few months Bill returned to his home in New York, taking the AA concept with him. The first AA meetings, in the Midwest and in New York, were held in member's homes. The attendees were mostly but not exclusively men, whose families often gathered in another room to talk about their own common problems — those of loving an alcoholic. Eventually these family meetings also became more organized. In 1951 Al-Anon Family Groups, the world's second 12-Step program, was made official.<ref>https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/history/</ref> In 1957, Alateen, which is Al-Anon for teenagers, was founded by a group of teens in southern California.<ref>ibid.</ref>		Bill W. had been in Ohio on business when he met Dr. Bob. After a few months Bill returned to his home in New York, taking the AA concept with him. The first AA meetings, in the Midwest and in New York, were held in member's homes. The attendees were mostly but not exclusively men, whose families often gathered in another room to talk about their own common problems — those of loving an alcoholic. Eventually these family meetings also became more organized. In 1951 Al-Anon Family Groups, the world's second 12-Step program, was made official.<ref>https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/history/</ref> In 1957, Alateen, which is Al-Anon for teenagers, was founded by a group of teens in southern California.<ref>ibid.</ref>

	The 12 Steps have since been adapted for use by myriad organizations — whatever the obsession, there is a 12-Step program to help with it: drug addiction, compulsive gambling, eating disorders, overspending and consequent debt, issues affecting adult children of alcoholics, issues with codependency, and many more. The Steps as originally written may be paraphrased somewhat to suit the needs of the specific group, but they remain universal principles that are found in nearly all prescriptions for living a spiritual life. These include practices such as fellowship, prayer & meditation, surrender to a higher power (or one's higher self), study, contemplation, confession, gratitude, self-examination, and celebration. For people who practice the 12 Steps, spiritual growth is the key to their effectiveness.<ref>Much of the discussion in this article is based on the writer's 2+ decades of experience with Al-Anon and related programs, including open AA meetings. Statements with no citation are based on this experience.</ref>		The 12 Steps have since been adapted for use by myriad organizations — whatever the obsession, there is a 12-Step program to help with it: drug addiction, compulsive gambling, eating disorders, overspending and consequent debt, issues affecting adult children of alcoholics, issues with codependency, and many more. The Steps as originally written may be paraphrased somewhat to suit the needs of the specific group, but they remain universal principles that are found in nearly all prescriptions for living a spiritual life. These include practices such as fellowship, prayer & meditation, surrender to a higher power (or one's higher self), study, contemplation, confession, gratitude, self-examination, and celebration. For people who practice the 12 Steps, spiritual growth is the key to their effectiveness.<ref>Much of the discussion in this article is based on the writer's 3+ decades of experience with Al-Anon and related programs, including open AA meetings. Statements with no citation are based on this experience.</ref>

	Although some people object to the use of the word "God" in the 12 Steps, the Higher Power referred to is for each individual to define or discover. There is no dogma in 12-Step programs (although there are dogmatic people in all walks of life. Those who are not religious may find AA dogmatic because some of its members are, and it can be difficult to separate the people from the program).		Although some people object to the use of the word "God" in the 12 Steps, the Higher Power referred to is for each individual to define or discover. There is no dogma in 12-Step programs (although there are dogmatic people in all walks of life. Those who are not religious may find AA dogmatic because some of its members are, and it can be difficult to separate the people from the program).

Janet Kerschner at 15:18, 7 October 2021

2021-10-07T15:18:33Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:18, 7 October 2021
Line 1:		Line 1:
			[[File:Twelve Steps.jpg\|right\|280px]]
	One of the core concepts of [[Theosophy]] is that of spiritual self-transformation — the idea that we can certainly change our lives if we want to. This belief also lies at the heart of '''12-Step programs''', which by now are ubiquitous. Twelve-Step meetings are found daily in every city and many, if not most, small towns in the U.S., as well as worldwide.<ref>See, for example, Alcoholics Anonymous publication SMF-53, Estimates of A.A. Groups & Members, available at https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/service-material-from-the-gso/smf-146-area-map-of-us-and-canada; and https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/Professionals/Interesting-Statistics</ref> People who use these programs successfully are profoundly grateful for them, and say so.<ref>Attend any open meeting (i.e., a meeting designated as open to the public) to hear this demonstrated.</ref>		One of the core concepts of [[Theosophy]] is that of spiritual self-transformation — the idea that we can certainly change our lives if we want to. This belief also lies at the heart of '''12-Step programs''', which by now are ubiquitous. Twelve-Step meetings are found daily in every city and many, if not most, small towns in the U.S., as well as worldwide.<ref>See, for example, Alcoholics Anonymous publication SMF-53, Estimates of A.A. Groups & Members, available at https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/service-material-from-the-gso/smf-146-area-map-of-us-and-canada; and https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/Professionals/Interesting-Statistics</ref> People who use these programs successfully are profoundly grateful for them, and say so.<ref>Attend any open meeting (i.e., a meeting designated as open to the public) to hear this demonstrated.</ref>

Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophy and the 12 Steps */

2021-10-07T15:15:47Z

Theosophy and the 12 Steps

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:15, 7 October 2021
Line 60:		Line 60:
	== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==		== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==

	Like any true spiritual discipline, 12-Step programs are not for the faint of heart. One often hears in 12-Step rooms that "it's a simple program but it is not easy." Similarly, a quote from the [[H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings (book)\|''H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings'']] of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky\|Madame Blavatsky]] is familiar to theosophists:		Like any true spiritual discipline, 12-Step programs are not for the faint of heart. One often hears in 12-Step rooms that "it's a simple program but it is not easy." Similarly, a quote from the [[H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings (book)\|''H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings'']] of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky\|Madame Blavatsky]] is familiar to [[Theosophy\|theosophists]]:

	:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>		:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>

	Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In Theosophy as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the Mahatmas who guided Mme Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: [[Try\|TRY]]."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>		Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In [[Theosophy]] as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the [[Mahatma\|Mahatmas]] who guided Mme. Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: [[Try\|TRY]]."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>

	Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.		Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.
Line 76:		Line 76:
	Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of [[Quest (periodical)\|''Quest'']] magazine (the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1404.</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."		Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of [[Quest (periodical)\|''Quest'']] magazine (the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1404.</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."

	It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew [[Dora van Gelder Kunz\|Dora Kunz]], President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.		It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew [[Dora van Gelder Kunz\|Dora Kunz]], President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. ''A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer''. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.

	This is the essence of [[Theosophy]]: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated – we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.		This is the essence of [[Theosophy]]: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated – we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.

SysopJ at 16:58, 4 March 2020

2020-03-04T16:58:52Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:58, 4 March 2020
Line 83:		Line 83:
	<references/>		<references/>

	[[Category:~~Other groups~~\|Twelve]]		[[Category:Organizations\|Twelve]]

SysopJ at 13:58, 16 May 2019

2019-05-16T13:58:32Z

Linda Dorr at 22:01, 15 May 2019

2019-05-15T22:01:48Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:01, 15 May 2019
Line 80:		Line 80:
	This is the essence of Theosophy: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated -- we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.		This is the essence of Theosophy: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated -- we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.

	== Notes ==		== Notes ==
	<references/>		<references/>

Linda Dorr: /* Theosophy and the 12 Steps */

2019-05-15T21:58:04Z

Theosophy and the 12 Steps

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:58, 15 May 2019
Line 64:		Line 64:
	:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>		:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>

	Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In ~~theosophy~~ as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the Mahatmas who guided Mme Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: TRY."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>		Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In Theosophy as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the Mahatmas who guided Mme Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: TRY."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>

	Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.		Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.

Linda Dorr: /* How Does It Work? */

2019-05-15T21:55:38Z

How Does It Work?

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:55, 15 May 2019
Line 46:		Line 46:
	To understand how something works, it may be helpful to first understand what is being worked on — in this case, addiction. Probably the simplest definition of addiction is that it is continued use of a substance or behavior despite negative consequences.<ref>"A person with an addiction is unable to stop taking a substance or engaging in a behavior, though it has harmful effects on daily living." https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323465.php. </ref> Some in the medical and therapeutic communities view addiction as primarily a brain disease, although the influence of both genetics and early childhood experiences is clear.<ref>https://drugabuse.com/library/what-causes-addiction/. </ref> There is also the view that substance use itself is the cause: simply using a drug that is addictive causes the brain changes that lead to addiction. However, Canadian psychologist Bruce Alexander and others refute this. Both experimental studies <ref>https://www.huffingtonpost.com/johann-hari/the-real-cause-of-addicti_b_6506936.html. </ref> and observation of veterans returning from Vietnam<ref>https://mayooshin.com/heroin-vietnam-war-veterans-addiction/. </ref> show clearly that, given companionship and a decent environment (i.e., access to nutritious food and stimulating or meaningful activities), both humans and lab rats will stop using addictive drugs.		To understand how something works, it may be helpful to first understand what is being worked on — in this case, addiction. Probably the simplest definition of addiction is that it is continued use of a substance or behavior despite negative consequences.<ref>"A person with an addiction is unable to stop taking a substance or engaging in a behavior, though it has harmful effects on daily living." https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323465.php. </ref> Some in the medical and therapeutic communities view addiction as primarily a brain disease, although the influence of both genetics and early childhood experiences is clear.<ref>https://drugabuse.com/library/what-causes-addiction/. </ref> There is also the view that substance use itself is the cause: simply using a drug that is addictive causes the brain changes that lead to addiction. However, Canadian psychologist Bruce Alexander and others refute this. Both experimental studies <ref>https://www.huffingtonpost.com/johann-hari/the-real-cause-of-addicti_b_6506936.html. </ref> and observation of veterans returning from Vietnam<ref>https://mayooshin.com/heroin-vietnam-war-veterans-addiction/. </ref> show clearly that, given companionship and a decent environment (i.e., access to nutritious food and stimulating or meaningful activities), both humans and lab rats will stop using addictive drugs.

	Many recovering alcoholics and addicts who are successfully using a 12-Step program -- as well as their relatives in Al-Anon -- believe the basis of addiction is the lack of a spiritual center. Rabbi Shais Taub puts it this way on his blog:		Many recovering alcoholics and addicts who are successfully using a 12-Step program — as well as their relatives in Al-Anon — believe the basis of addiction is the lack of a spiritual center. Rabbi Shais Taub puts it this way on his blog:

	:::All human beings have a deep-seated need for spiritual contact. But most people can also live their lives without it. Addicts are people who, for whatever reason, are unsettled to the core and cannot handle the business of life without maintaining a continual and acute awareness of the Divine. Absent such higher consciousness, they are miserable and sick. What makes their dilemma fatal is that their drug of choice will actually produce in them short-term effects that simulate the release and relief that can only really be had through spiritual consciousness. Consequently, the only real treatment for their condition is to make sure that they get the "real thing" instead of self-medicating with the fake stuff, for if they do not get the real thing, they have no choice but to take the fake stuff.		:::All human beings have a deep-seated need for spiritual contact. But most people can also live their lives without it. Addicts are people who, for whatever reason, are unsettled to the core and cannot handle the business of life without maintaining a continual and acute awareness of the Divine. Absent such higher consciousness, they are miserable and sick. What makes their dilemma fatal is that their drug of choice will actually produce in them short-term effects that simulate the release and relief that can only really be had through spiritual consciousness. Consequently, the only real treatment for their condition is to make sure that they get the "real thing" instead of self-medicating with the fake stuff, for if they do not get the real thing, they have no choice but to take the fake stuff.
Line 56:		Line 56:
	Others, such as psychiatrist Lance Dodes, consider addiction a psychological problem, perhaps related to well-meaning but ineffective parenting.<ref>https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-heart-addiction/201503/spirituality-and-addiction. </ref> While Dr. Dodes recognizes that spirituality is not the same thing as religion, he appears to view spirituality as a psychological phenomenon. He is at the other end of the spectrum regarding the effectiveness of 12-Step programs, and appears to consider AA a cult of sorts. As noted above, for people who don't believe that humans have a spiritual dimension, there is no way to understand how it works.		Others, such as psychiatrist Lance Dodes, consider addiction a psychological problem, perhaps related to well-meaning but ineffective parenting.<ref>https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-heart-addiction/201503/spirituality-and-addiction. </ref> While Dr. Dodes recognizes that spirituality is not the same thing as religion, he appears to view spirituality as a psychological phenomenon. He is at the other end of the spectrum regarding the effectiveness of 12-Step programs, and appears to consider AA a cult of sorts. As noted above, for people who don't believe that humans have a spiritual dimension, there is no way to understand how it works.

	And it does not work for everyone. Some people have no interest in spirituality, and even those who do may struggle with "God as we understand God." It is possible to recover from addiction without the help of the 12 Steps, although — as seen in the studies cited above — a commitment to the Steps has a measurable effect on better outcomes.		And it does not work for everyone. Some people have no interest in spirituality, and even those who do may struggle with "God as we understand God." It is possible to recover from addiction without the help of the 12 Steps, although — as seen in the studies cited above — a commitment to the Steps has a measurable effect on better outcomes.

	== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==		== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==

Linda Dorr: /* Effectiveness of 12-Step Programs */

2019-05-15T21:54:18Z

Effectiveness of 12-Step Programs

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:54, 15 May 2019
Line 36:		Line 36:
	A 2009 overview of the literature on AA's effectiveness<ref>Kaskutas LE: Alcoholics Anonymous Effectiveness: Faith Meets Science. Journal of Addictive Diseases 28(2):145–157, 2009. Found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2746426/.</ref> observed, among other positive findings, (1) rates of abstinence are about twice as high among those who attend 12-Step meetings following clinical treatment as those who do not attend, and (2) higher levels of attendance correlate with higher rates of abstinence. These two results were consistent across different groups of people and a variety of follow-up times. In addition, "mechanisms of action predicted by theories of behavior change are present" in 12-Step programs — that is, psychology recognizes the tools that people in 12-Step programs use to change their behavior. These tools include learning to view oneself as others do (in 12-Step rooms this is known as coming out of denial) and, naturally, having a support group of people who are working on the same life changes, which provides successful role models as well as psychological support.		A 2009 overview of the literature on AA's effectiveness<ref>Kaskutas LE: Alcoholics Anonymous Effectiveness: Faith Meets Science. Journal of Addictive Diseases 28(2):145–157, 2009. Found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2746426/.</ref> observed, among other positive findings, (1) rates of abstinence are about twice as high among those who attend 12-Step meetings following clinical treatment as those who do not attend, and (2) higher levels of attendance correlate with higher rates of abstinence. These two results were consistent across different groups of people and a variety of follow-up times. In addition, "mechanisms of action predicted by theories of behavior change are present" in 12-Step programs — that is, psychology recognizes the tools that people in 12-Step programs use to change their behavior. These tools include learning to view oneself as others do (in 12-Step rooms this is known as coming out of denial) and, naturally, having a support group of people who are working on the same life changes, which provides successful role models as well as psychological support.

	(Unless you're interested in the minutiae of these types of studies, you may want to skip this paragraph.) One of the criteria for "establishing causation" in such studies is known as specificity. In biology and pharmacology, specificity is defined (per dictionary.com) as "the selective attachment or influence of one substance on another, as an antibiotic and its target organism" — that is, a specific drug eradicates a specific germ. In our case, it means there is no confusion regarding what caused the outcome — a result is or is not specifically related to a 12-Step program, and is not related to other causes. In this overview of the literature, the "rigorous experimental evidence" for specificity of 12-Step programs yielded mixed results. The author notes that in some studies, some participants who were assigned to a ~~non¬–12~~-Step treatment program also attended AA. This means the 12-Step treatment group was really being compared to an alternative treatment plus AA, which could make the alternative treatment look better than it actually was. In other studies, the 12-Step meetings provided were run by the people doing the study, who were not AA members -- so these were not actual AA meetings.		(Unless you're interested in the minutiae of these types of studies, you may want to skip this paragraph.) One of the criteria for "establishing causation" in such studies is known as specificity. In biology and pharmacology, specificity is defined (per dictionary.com) as "the selective attachment or influence of one substance on another, as an antibiotic and its target organism" — that is, a specific drug eradicates a specific germ. In our case, it means there is no confusion regarding what caused the outcome — a result is or is not specifically related to a 12-Step program, and is not related to other causes. In this overview of the literature, the "rigorous experimental evidence" for specificity of 12-Step programs yielded mixed results. The author notes that in some studies, some participants who were assigned to a non–12-Step treatment program also attended AA. This means the 12-Step treatment group was really being compared to an alternative treatment plus AA, which could make the alternative treatment look better than it actually was. In other studies, the 12-Step meetings provided were run by the people doing the study, who were not AA members — so these were not actual AA meetings.

	Many other individual studies have found that attendance at 12-Step meetings improves outcomes for people recovering from addiction; a handful are referenced here.<ref> Moos RH, Moos BS: Participation in treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous: a 16-year follow-up of initially untreated individuals. Journal of Clinical Psychology 62(6):735–750, 2006. Found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2220012/.</ref> <ref>Gossop M, Harris J, Best D, et al: Is attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings after inpatient treatment related to improved outcomes? A 6-month follow-up study. Alcohol & Alcoholism 38(5):421-426, 2003. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12915517.</ref> <ref>Gossop M, Stewart D, Marsden J: Attendance at Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, frequency of attendance and substance use outcomes after residential treatment for drug dependence: a 5-year follow-up study. Addiction 103(1):112-125, 2008. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18028521.</ref> <ref>Kaskutas LA, Ammon L, Delucchi K, et al: Alcoholics anonymous careers: patterns of AA involvement five years after treatment entry. Alcoholism, Clinical & Experimental Research 29(11):1983-1990, 2005. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16340455.</ref>		Many other individual studies have found that attendance at 12-Step meetings improves outcomes for people recovering from addiction; a handful are referenced here.<ref> Moos RH, Moos BS: Participation in treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous: a 16-year follow-up of initially untreated individuals. Journal of Clinical Psychology 62(6):735–750, 2006. Found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2220012/.</ref> <ref>Gossop M, Harris J, Best D, et al: Is attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings after inpatient treatment related to improved outcomes? A 6-month follow-up study. Alcohol & Alcoholism 38(5):421-426, 2003. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12915517.</ref> <ref>Gossop M, Stewart D, Marsden J: Attendance at Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, frequency of attendance and substance use outcomes after residential treatment for drug dependence: a 5-year follow-up study. Addiction 103(1):112-125, 2008. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18028521.</ref> <ref>Kaskutas LA, Ammon L, Delucchi K, et al: Alcoholics anonymous careers: patterns of AA involvement five years after treatment entry. Alcoholism, Clinical & Experimental Research 29(11):1983-1990, 2005. Abstract found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16340455.</ref>

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:58, 16 May 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
	One of the core concepts of Theosophy is that of spiritual self-transformation — the idea that we can certainly change our lives if we want to. This belief also lies at the heart of 12-Step programs, which by now are ubiquitous. Twelve-Step meetings are found daily in every city and many, if not most, small towns in the U.S., as well as worldwide.<ref>See, for example, Alcoholics Anonymous publication SMF-53, Estimates of A.A. Groups & Members, available at https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/service-material-from-the-gso/smf-146-area-map-of-us-and-canada; and https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/Professionals/Interesting-Statistics</ref> People who use these programs successfully are profoundly grateful for them, and say so.<ref>Attend any open meeting (i.e., a meeting designated as open to the public) to hear this demonstrated.</ref>		One of the core concepts of [[Theosophy]] is that of spiritual self-transformation — the idea that we can certainly change our lives if we want to. This belief also lies at the heart of '''12-Step programs''', which by now are ubiquitous. Twelve-Step meetings are found daily in every city and many, if not most, small towns in the U.S., as well as worldwide.<ref>See, for example, Alcoholics Anonymous publication SMF-53, Estimates of A.A. Groups & Members, available at https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/service-material-from-the-gso/smf-146-area-map-of-us-and-canada; and https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/Professionals/Interesting-Statistics</ref> People who use these programs successfully are profoundly grateful for them, and say so.<ref>Attend any open meeting (i.e., a meeting designated as open to the public) to hear this demonstrated.</ref>

	== History of 12-Step Programs ==		== History of 12-Step Programs ==

	The first and best-known 12-Step program was and is, of course, Alcoholics ~~Anonymous~~. AA was founded in Akron, Ohio, in 1935 by two alcoholics who discovered that helping other problem drinkers seemed to keep their own demons at bay. Both Bill W. and "Dr. Bob" S. had been involved with the Oxford Group, a Christian organization that emphasized universal spiritual values.<ref> https://www.aa.org/pages/en_US/historical-data-the-birth-of-aa-and-its-growth-in-the-uscanada.</ref> These concepts — the basics of which were (and are) honesty, unselfishness, and unconditional love for one's fellow humans<ref>See https://www.12step.com/oxfordgroup.</ref> — became the foundation of the 12 Steps.		The first and best-known 12-Step program was and is, of course, '''Alcoholics Anonymou'''s. AA was founded in Akron, Ohio, in 1935 by two alcoholics who discovered that helping other problem drinkers seemed to keep their own demons at bay. Both Bill W. and "Dr. Bob" S. had been involved with the Oxford Group, a Christian organization that emphasized universal spiritual values.<ref> https://www.aa.org/pages/en_US/historical-data-the-birth-of-aa-and-its-growth-in-the-uscanada.</ref> These concepts — the basics of which were (and are) honesty, unselfishness, and unconditional love for one's fellow humans<ref>See https://www.12step.com/oxfordgroup.</ref> — became the foundation of the 12 Steps.

	Bill W. had been in Ohio on business when he met Dr. Bob. After a few months Bill returned to his home in New York, taking the AA concept with him. The first AA meetings, in the Midwest and in New York, were held in member's homes. The attendees were mostly but not exclusively men, whose families often gathered in another room to talk about their own common problems — those of loving an alcoholic. Eventually these family meetings also became more organized. In 1951 Al-Anon Family Groups, the world's second 12-Step program, was made official.<ref>https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/history/</ref> In 1957, Alateen, which is Al-Anon for teenagers, was founded by a group of teens in southern California.<ref>ibid.</ref>		Bill W. had been in Ohio on business when he met Dr. Bob. After a few months Bill returned to his home in New York, taking the AA concept with him. The first AA meetings, in the Midwest and in New York, were held in member's homes. The attendees were mostly but not exclusively men, whose families often gathered in another room to talk about their own common problems — those of loving an alcoholic. Eventually these family meetings also became more organized. In 1951 Al-Anon Family Groups, the world's second 12-Step program, was made official.<ref>https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/history/</ref> In 1957, Alateen, which is Al-Anon for teenagers, was founded by a group of teens in southern California.<ref>ibid.</ref>
Line 60:		Line 60:
	== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==		== Theosophy and the 12 Steps ==

	Like any true spiritual discipline, 12-Step programs are not for the faint of heart. One often hears in 12-Step rooms that "it's a simple program but it is not easy." Similarly, a quote from the Collected ~~Works~~ of Madame Blavatsky is familiar to theosophists:		Like any true spiritual discipline, 12-Step programs are not for the faint of heart. One often hears in 12-Step rooms that "it's a simple program but it is not easy." Similarly, a quote from the [[H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings (book)\|''H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings'']] of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky\|Madame Blavatsky]] is familiar to theosophists:

	:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>		:::There ''is'' a road steep and thorny, beset with perils of every kind, but yet a road, and it leads to the very heart of the Universe: I can tell you how to find those who will show you the secret gateway that opens inward only, and closes fast behind the neophyte forevermore. There is no danger that dauntless courage cannot conquer; there is no trial that spotless purity cannot pass through; there is no difficulty that strong intellect cannot surmount. For those who win onwards there is reward past all telling—the power to bless and save humanity.<ref>Collected Writings, vol. 13, p. 219; found at http://www.katinkahesselink.net/blavatsky/articles/v13/ph_004.htm. </ref>

	Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In Theosophy as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the Mahatmas who guided Mme Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: TRY."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>		Here we may be reminded of the AA Big Book's "What an order! I can't go through with it!" comment that follows the 12 Steps (see above). In Theosophy as in 12-Step work, however, the emphasis is on willingness. As cited above, the AA Big Book notes that "The point is we are willing to grow along spiritual lines." Likewise, the Mahatmas who guided Mme Blavatsky and her followers told early theosophists, "We have one word for all aspirants: [[Try\|TRY]]."<ref>Chin, Vicente Hao Jr. (ed): The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993, p. 148. This is the most often quoted instance of the plea to "Try," although the admonishment was repeated in other letters as well. Also see https://theosophy.wiki/en/Try!</ref>

	Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.		Perhaps the most striking similarity between Theosophy and 12-Step work is the emphasis on spiritual self-transformation. While some people have only an intellectual or academic interest in Theosophy, we are all encouraged to live it, not just study it. Simply put, this means living ethically and being of service to our fellow humans -- much easier said than done, for many of us. Twelve-Step programs emphasize the same notion, and the Steps are a highly effective road map to spiritual self-transformation. Many people who use them believe that their power to change people's lives is unparalleled.
Line 74:		Line 74:
	This author, a psychotherapist who worked primarily with clients having addictions, "contend[s] that the growing problem of addiction in this society is a symbol of spiritual bankruptcy, emotional emptiness, and lack of human relatedness that affects increasing numbers of people. ... Increasingly I believe that spiritual hunger may be at the basis of most of the ‘disease' of addiction."<ref>ibid.</ref>		This author, a psychotherapist who worked primarily with clients having addictions, "contend[s] that the growing problem of addiction in this society is a symbol of spiritual bankruptcy, emotional emptiness, and lack of human relatedness that affects increasing numbers of people. ... Increasingly I believe that spiritual hunger may be at the basis of most of the ‘disease' of addiction."<ref>ibid.</ref>

	Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of Quest magazine (the journal of the Theosophical Society in America).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1404.</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."		Another excellent article on the similarities between theosophy and the 12 Steps appeared in a 2008 issue of [[Quest (periodical)\|''Quest'']] magazine (the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]).<ref> Sides-Smith, Mona. A Practical Path to Theosophy: AA's Twelve Steps. Quest 96:(2), pp. 47-51, March-April 2008. Found at https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1404.</ref> In it, the author notes that the principles of theosophy are so similar to those of a 12-Step program that, when one practices both, it is difficult to separate the two influences. Probably the chief difference between the two philosophies is that 12-Step work is eminently practical, while Theosophy, at least for beginners, is more theoretical. The Quest article observes that Theosophy is more "like a ‘sky road' while the Twelve Steps are like an ‘earth road.' The Steps give one a more practical or down to earth way to walk through life, while Theosophy is an elevated search. You can travel back and forth between the two as long as you balance the lofty abstractions with some down-to-earth practicality."

	It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew Dora Kunz, President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.		It is also not surprising that AA's founders knew [[Dora van Gelder Kunz\|Dora Kunz]], President of the Theosophical Society in American from 1975 to 1987 and, of course, well known to theosophists world-wide. Both Bill W. and his wife (one of the founders of Al-Anon) had many a conversation with Mrs. Kunz regarding ways to approach spiritual seeking.<ref> Chelsey, Frank, and Kirstin Van Gelder. A Most Unusual Life: Dora van Gelder Kunz: Clairvoyant, Theosophist, Healer. Wheaton, Illinois: Quest Books, 2015, pp. 93-97.</ref> Mrs. Kunz as well as the 12-Step founders were proponents of spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. They felt it was important for people to come to their own understanding of a higher power or spiritual self, rather than having a particular creed imposed on them.

	This is the essence of Theosophy: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated -- we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.		This is the essence of [[Theosophy]]: While there are universal truths, they cannot be dictated – we only learn them through our own work. Theosophy shows us the signposts, and we each have to create our own path to a higher level of consciousness. Similarly, 12-Step programs promise a spiritual awakening to anyone who is willing to put in the work. Having a community of like-minded travelers makes the journey less arduous and more worthwhile.

	== Notes ==		== Notes ==
	<references/>		<references/>

			[[Category:Other groups\|Twelve]]