Measurements of spirituality in the context of 12-step treatment: problem with theological analysis

ABSTRACT

Despite more than the 80-year history of the AA movement, there is a gap in academic knowledge about the essence of AA spiritual concepts. One particularly important lacuna about AA practice is weakness of theoretical frame for the often-used measuring tools of spiritual variables in quantitative studies. This article argues that theological analysis of AA practice can be a very useful part of empirical studies if the researcher’s theological commitments favor studying nonconfessional groups. A promising possible vein for future research is proposed.

KEYWORDS:

• Alcoholics anonymous
• spirituality
• beliefs
• theology
• spiritual therapy
• measurements

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).