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Beyond the Controversy: What Research Really Shows About AA
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When it seems like everyone on social media is criticizing 12-step programs, where can you find the truth about what really works for addiction recovery? Matt Brown dives into groundbreaking Stanford University research that examined 35 studies involving 10,080 participants to answer a simple question: Does Alcoholics Anonymous actually work?
The science is startlingly clear. AA was found to be "nearly always more effective than psychotherapy in achieving abstinence," while significantly reducing healthcare costs. This research, led by Dr. Keith Humphreys (who initially dismissed AA himself), provides compelling evidence that the social connection component of 12-step programs creates powerful healing that formal therapy alone often can't match.
Matt shares his own journey from homeless, penniless alcoholic to 22 years of sobriety, addressing his initial resistance to AA's core concepts: the disease model and belief in a higher power. His story reveals how the social connection and accountability found in meetings ultimately saved his life, despite his skepticism.
Whether you're questioning the value of AA for yourself or a loved one struggling with addiction, this episode offers research-backed insights without judgment. Matt emphasizes that while multiple paths to recovery exist, discounting effective options based on misconceptions can have life-or-death consequences. For anyone concerned about addiction, this evidence-based perspective on what truly works could be the most important thing you hear today.
Email your questions or comments to Matt at [email protected], and don't forget to join the new Sunday night meetings starting June 15th at 8pm Pacific time.
Support the show
Join us Every Sunday at 8:00 PM PST and Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Night at 8:00 PM EST/5:00PST for a FREE family support group. Register at the following link to get the zoom information sent to you: Family Support Meeting
About our sponsor(s):
SoberHelpline.com If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you do not have to navigate it alone. Sober Helpline offers confidential, family-focused support designed to help you understand what is happening, reduce chaos, and take clear, healthy next steps—without pressure or judgment. From practical guidance and education to real-world tools for setting boundaries and finding ethical help, Sober Helpline exists to support families as much as the person struggling. Learn more and access support at SoberHelpline.com.
FamilyBridgeApp.com: FamilyBridge is an app designed to support real family systems in real time. It gives families a structured way to communicate, track patterns, and reduce emotional chaos—without constant confrontation. What makes it different is how it uses AI to help families notice patterns they might miss on their own: communication breakdowns, financial stress points, boundary violations, and moments where helping quiet...
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By Matt BrownWe want to hear from you! Send us a question or comment.
When it seems like everyone on social media is criticizing 12-step programs, where can you find the truth about what really works for addiction recovery? Matt Brown dives into groundbreaking Stanford University research that examined 35 studies involving 10,080 participants to answer a simple question: Does Alcoholics Anonymous actually work?
The science is startlingly clear. AA was found to be "nearly always more effective than psychotherapy in achieving abstinence," while significantly reducing healthcare costs. This research, led by Dr. Keith Humphreys (who initially dismissed AA himself), provides compelling evidence that the social connection component of 12-step programs creates powerful healing that formal therapy alone often can't match.
Matt shares his own journey from homeless, penniless alcoholic to 22 years of sobriety, addressing his initial resistance to AA's core concepts: the disease model and belief in a higher power. His story reveals how the social connection and accountability found in meetings ultimately saved his life, despite his skepticism.
Whether you're questioning the value of AA for yourself or a loved one struggling with addiction, this episode offers research-backed insights without judgment. Matt emphasizes that while multiple paths to recovery exist, discounting effective options based on misconceptions can have life-or-death consequences. For anyone concerned about addiction, this evidence-based perspective on what truly works could be the most important thing you hear today.
Email your questions or comments to Matt at [email protected], and don't forget to join the new Sunday night meetings starting June 15th at 8pm Pacific time.
Support the show
Join us Every Sunday at 8:00 PM PST and Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Night at 8:00 PM EST/5:00PST for a FREE family support group. Register at the following link to get the zoom information sent to you: Family Support Meeting
About our sponsor(s):
SoberHelpline.com If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you do not have to navigate it alone. Sober Helpline offers confidential, family-focused support designed to help you understand what is happening, reduce chaos, and take clear, healthy next steps—without pressure or judgment. From practical guidance and education to real-world tools for setting boundaries and finding ethical help, Sober Helpline exists to support families as much as the person struggling. Learn more and access support at SoberHelpline.com.
FamilyBridgeApp.com: FamilyBridge is an app designed to support real family systems in real time. It gives families a structured way to communicate, track patterns, and reduce emotional chaos—without constant confrontation. What makes it different is how it uses AI to help families notice patterns they might miss on their own: communication breakdowns, financial stress points, boundary violations, and moments where helping quiet...