Obvious benefits but hidden costs: A critical exploration of the impact of adopting the “master narrative” in Alcoholics Anonymous

Abstract

IntroductionNew members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) typically acquire a distinct “alcoholic” identity, including AA-specific understandings of their “alcoholism” and what it means to be in recovery. Although much qualitative research on AA has presented the experiences of members who have embraced this identity and have been wholly praising of AA, other theorists have been strongly critical of the organization, often arguing that it emulates a cult. To contribute towards reconciling these competing bodies of research, the current study aimed to critically explore the impact of adopting AA's master narrative. MethodsThe study involved 19 prospective, in-depth semi-structured interviews with six AA members recruited from meetings across Sydney, Australia. Data were analyzed thematically using a master narrative theoretical framework. ResultsThe study identified three core components of AA's master narrative: (1) Powerlessness over alcohol (“alcoholics” are powerless over alcohol); (2) Internalized pathologization (“alcoholics” are mentally and emotionally sick, above and beyond their problems with alcohol); and (3) AA as the only solution for wellness (involvement in AA is the necessary requirement for “alcoholics” to become and remain well). Although most participants emphasized the positive experiences from internalizing the AA narrative, our analysis also revealed potentially negative ramifications of this narrative on their self-conceptions and worldviews that were seemingly unrecognized by participants themselves. ConclusionsThe master narrative framework facilitated a critical and balanced exploration of AA members' experiences. Although AA's master narrative is valuable for members, it could also carry costs that need to be mitigated by resources both inside and outside of AA.