HOW AA WORKS AND WHY ITS IMPORTANT FOR CLINICIAN TO UNDERSTAND

Alcoholism is associated with tremendous suffering, psychological deni al, and physical and emotional debilitation. Much of the suffering tha t plagues alcoholics is rooted in core problems with self-regulation i nvolving self-governance, feeling life (affects), and self-care. Alcoh lics Anonymous is effective because it is a sophisticated group psycho logy that effectively accesses, corrects, or repairs these core psycho logical vulnerabilities. The traditions of storytelling, honesty, open ness, and willingness to examine (''take inventory'') character defect s allow people to express themselves who otherwise do not feel or spea k and help those who otherwise are deceitful (to self and others) and would deny vulnerability and limitation to openly admit to it.