In Alcoholics Anonymous, who takes a central role in recovery?

In Alcoholics Anonymous, who takes a central role in recovery?

• A. The person in recovery, who uses peer supports in the community.
• B. The psychiatrist leading the program.
• C. The government agency supervising treatment.
• D. The medical device sponsor.

Answer: (A)

In this model, the recovering person takes the lead, using peer supports found within the AA community to stay sober. AA is built around personal responsibility and mutual support from fellow members, not a professional or institutional leader. A clinician or government body may be involved in related treatment, but they don’t run AA or take the central role in recovery. The “sponsor” in AA is a more experienced member who provides guidance, again a peer relationship, not a medical professional. So the recovering individual, supported by peers in the fellowship, is the most central element of recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous.

In this model, the recovering person takes the lead, using peer supports found within the AA community to stay sober. AA is built around personal responsibility and mutual support from fellow members, not a professional or institutional leader. A clinician or government body may be involved in related treatment, but they don’t run AA or take the central role in recovery. The “sponsor” in AA is a more experienced member who provides guidance, again a peer relationship, not a medical professional. So the recovering individual, supported by peers in the fellowship, is the most central element of recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous.