Glatt's Curve Revisited: A Pilot Study Investigating the Progression of Recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous

ABSTRACT

Glatt's 1958 curve is used in AA to illustrate the nature of alcohol dependence and recovery, and spiritual gains are considered an important point in the recovery progression. Sixteen AA members, who had experienced transformational changes, were interviewed regarding the progression of recovery surrounding their transformation. Their progressions were compared with Glatt's hypothetical curve. For most, the transformation was located in the middle of the recovery progression and was positively correlated with Glatt's progression. For this sample, the working of the 4th step of AA appeared to be an important catalyst for transformational change. In addition, the experience of transformation often resulted in a rebirth of ideals and a new set of enduring moral values.

KEYWORDS:

• Transformation
• recovery
• hitting bottom
• Alcoholics Anonymous
• card sort

Notes

∗Unique responses on blank cards

∗Not his real name.