Identifier
etd-07092010-090934
Degree
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Department
Social Work
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the Twelve Steps have been instrumental in the recovery of numerous persons who are alcohol dependent. Altruism has been found to have a positive effect on physical and psychological functioning in diverse populations. A key component of AA is altruistic helping and service to others to recover from alcohol dependency. The current study explores the relationship between altruism and recovery from alcohol dependency. Self-report survey data focusing on altruism, AA altruistic activities, and recovery from alcohol dependence was collected from 92 AA members and analyzed to assess for correlations between altruism and recovery. No statistically significant relationship between altruism and recovery from alcohol dependence emerged. Therefore, altruism should not be utilized as a primary mode of treatment for alcohol dependence until further evidence demonstrates the positive effect of altruism on recovery.
Date
2010
Document Availability at the Time of Submission
Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.
Recommended Citation
Nicholson, Alan, "Altruism and alcohol dependence: is there a relationship between helping others and recovery?" (2010). LSU Master's Theses. 2973.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/2973
Committee Chair
Lemieux, Catherine
DOI
10.31390/gradschool_theses.2973