Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.)
Problems addressed
Alcohol abuse
Effectiveness

Promising

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Promising

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Life periods served
Adults (18 to 59 years)
Where the program was applied
Community (streets or community centers)
Hospital
Country of application
United States
United Kingdom
Description

This is a voluntary service to support alcoholic men and women. The goal is to maintain the sobriety of its members through group support and the application of the 12 Steps. The service has closed and open meetings, with participation by members and their families and friends.

Impact evaluations

Impact evaluation studies show that those who attended A.A. weekly or more frequently reported a reduction in alcohol abuse and psychological problems, as well as a higher quality of life [1].
After the 1-year post-treatment follow-up period, there was a reduction in alcohol-related problems, whereas after the 2-year follow-up period, these effects did not impact motivation or substance use-related psychopathology [2].

Bibliographic reference

[1] Gossop, M., Harris, J., Best, D., Man, L. H., Manning, V., Marshall, J., & Strang, J. (2003). 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. https://doi.org/10.1093/alcalc/agg104

[2] McKellar, J., Stewart, E., & Humphreys, K. (2003). Alcoholics Anonymous involvement and positive alcohol-related outcomes: Cause, consequence, or just a correlate? A prospective 2-year study of 2,319 alcohol-dependent men. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 71(2), 302-308. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.71.2.302

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