Hser 511

Alcoholic Anonymous: Support Group Report

Liberty University, HSER 511

Alcoholic Anonymous

“a support group consists of members with something in common, meets on a regular basis and members share thoughts and feelings and help one another examine issues and concerns” (Jacobs, Masson, Harvill, Schimmel, 2012, p15). Alcoholics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, and Narcotics Anonymous all follow a twelve-step hypothesis that benefit many individuals. The group meetings are led by members only . The way the group session is carried out depends on the group. Groups can have guest speakers, or discuss specific topics. Some meetings are open to anyone, even visitors as myself, which are classified as open discussions and is open for anyone interested in the AA program and other may be considered closed discussions which are limited to those with a desire to stop drinking.

Support Group Summary

I attended an Alcoholic Anonymous meeting on Wednesday June, 5, 2013 to observe the group mechanics that take place within this type of group. Upon arrival I notice that the members that were participating were outside of the meeting placing talking to each other. Upon the arrival of the leader I introduced myself and stated that I was a graduate student at Liberty University and obtained permission to observe their meeting for a class assignment. The leader and members welcomed me openhearted into their group session.

During preparation for the session members brought a special treat to share and coffee was also prepared. The seating was organized in a semi-square so that every member would be able to see each other. In this particular meeting there was a group leader and a co-leader, both whom were recovering alcoholics. The meeting started by everyone standing, joining hands and citing the Serenity Prayer. The leader recognized visitors and made various announcements. She mentioned numerous potential activities members could get...