Safe in the Rooms of A.A.: How Anonymity Helps Reduce the Stigma of Help-seeking and Reinforces Solidarity and Group Cohesiveness

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.

KEYWORDS:

• Anonymity
• help-seeking
• stigma
• alcoholism
• group cohesiveness
• alcoholics anonymous
• spirituality
• A.A.traditions

Acknowledgments

This work would not have been possible without the willingness of many A.A. members to share sensitive and personal information. The author also gratefully acknowledges the invaluable discussions and guidance provided by Jessica Wendorf Muhamad, Ph.D.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.