Social and cultural preconditions of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and factors associated with the strength of AA

Abstract

In 1986, AA activities (a minimum of five groups) typically occurred in non-socialist, non-Islamic countries with a GNP per capita above US$ 1000. From 1965 to 1986, the share of English speaking and Scandinavian countries of all AA groups diminished, and the share of Central and Southern European, and particularly of Latin America, increased. Correlation analysis of countries fulfilling the typical preconditions of AA indicates changes in the relationships of AA to social background factors. In 1965, AA was strongest in the wealthiest countries, but no such correlation was observed in 1986. The rate of growth of AA has been higher in Roman Catholic countries. Wine consumption is negatively and beer consumption positively correlated to the strength of AA. Cross-sectional strength of AA is not related to spirits consumption, but its rate of growth has been higher in countries where spirits are consumed. The first wave of diffusion brought AA to the Anglo-Saxon and Protestant world. The second wave covered American and European Catholic countries, and bridgeheads have been established in newly industrialized nations. Still, AA remains a phenomenon of developed and wealthy societies.