Safe in the Rooms of A.A.: How Anonymity Helps Reduce the Stigma of Help-seeking and Reinforces Solidarity and Group Cohesiveness. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ippolito, Tracy A.
• Is Part Of: Alcoholism treatment quarterly. Volume 38:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 2
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: Anonymity -- help-seeking -- stigma -- alcoholism -- group cohesiveness -- alcoholics anonymous -- spirituality -- A.A.traditions; Alcoholism -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 613.81
• DOI: 10.1080/07347324.2019.1647772
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-7324

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Initially embraced as a protective measure, anonymity is now a cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) for reasons far beyond member confidentiality. This manuscript considers how today's A.A. members understand and internalize the tradition of anonymity. The study: (1) explores how anonymity is defined and practiced by contemporary A.A. members; (2) examines whether the perception of anonymity in A.A. plays a role in help-seeking behaviors; and (3) investigates member understandings of the "spiritual nature" of anonymity.