Alcoholics Anonymous and similar 12-step programs penetration is thorough in the ‘recovery’ and ‘rehab’ field; but it is neither the most-effective, nor the best system for dealing with substance and other addictive behaviors; and some core beliefs of A.A. are just disempowering; such as ‘you are powerless’ (over your addiction(s)) and you must believe in/turn to a ‘higher power’ who ‘can and will,’ if sought; ‘cure’ you of your ‘disease.’ (and run to dogma) (‘have ‘God’ remove our ‘character defects’) (make amends to those we’ve wronged (except when to do so would injure them or others)) (make a ‘searching and fearless’ inventory of ourselves)
Source: www.theatlantic.com