AA Deprogramming

Problem drinkers enter Alcoholics Anonymous with a multitude of problems. The most immediate one, upon their time of arrival is a pressing need to stop drinking. But what causes the alcoholic to reach for the bottle? Why is life so uncomfortable that escape is sought? Attributing all of one's problems to alcohol or the "disease" of alcoholism often leaves the other problems unaddressed.

Frequently, the more serene members of AA will approach the angry, rebellious, or sad AA member, offer a slogan or suggest working the steps to fix these "bad emotions" immediately. This kind of response can be quite annoying for the person who is actually experiencing healthy healing by being in the stage of anger or rebellion, or is sad due to mourning.

Many a newcomer will immediately feel comfy and cozy in the rooms of AA simply because the dynamics of the group mirror that of the newcomer's dysfunctional family of origin. * Don't think, don't feel. * If you do feel, be advised that certain feelings are not allowed. * We know what's best for you....

What happens when feelings such as anger, grief or dissatisfaction are ignored, denied or covered up for long periods of time? The good news is that violence, suicide or drinking oneself silly do not have to be the only options! Competent therapists exist. There is help available, and there are constructive ways of dealing with strong emotions.

The steps are supposedly the means to a spiritual experience. As you may know, Bill Wilson had a white light experience - a spiritual awakening which was the turning point beginning his journey into sobriety. Most of the people I've spoken to have reported no such thing.

I have heard too many cases where people in excruciating emotional pain are shamed for their emotions in the rooms of AA, and this disgusts me to no end. Isn't it fascinating that there are so many AA platitudes that can be found which encourage the use of repression and denial to cope with strong feelings?

The authors of "Alcoholics Anonymous" - the guide for living life without alcohol, were of a certain era, of a very specific socio-economic group, and had very specific personality problems. Unfortunately, these personality problems are presented as being THE diagnosis for ALL alcoholics. They are not. These particular men used and abused their power which was automatically granted to them by being born into a racist, classist, sexist society which was geared to cater to the needs of individuals exactly like them, at the expense of women, children and people of color.