[currymj]

a major part of 12-step programs is getting people to shift to an external locus of control. they're supposed to accept that they have a permanent problem that it's totally beyond their power to fix.

somehow this helps people make difficult, lasting changes in their lives that were previously beyond them, which is exactly the opposite of what should happen according to the research profiled in this article.

I think it's probably valuable to have an accurate locus of control -- the serenity to accept the things you cannot change, the courage to change the things you can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Unfortunately this idea that an internal locus of control is always the superior, correct attitude is already floating out into pop psychology in schools and workplaces. I'm sure the actual research is nuanced and interesting but that's not what's reaching people.

[TameAntelope]

For what it's worth, I don't think the twelve step program should be universally lauded such as it is. Does it help people? Absolutely. Could there be a better way? Probably.

[leetcrew]

hard to attack something that is already the status quo and free.

[runawaybottle]

It’s not hard to attack it. Cold turkey strategies can be a recipe for disaster.

[leetcrew]

I'm personally skeptical of AA due to a.) the fact that it is structured in a way that makes it impossible for it to evaluate its own efficacy and b.) the general cult vibe.

it's difficult to attack because, among other things, it is already integrated with the justice system. it fills the role of "okay, you're guilty of {drug-related offense}, but since it's your first time we're gonna cut you a break. we can't just let you get off scot-free, so you gotta go to these meetings and get this slip signed. maybe you'll end up turning your life around in the process." any discussion of a replacement probably has to start with "how much does it cost?" and "who's paying?".