2016/06/01 by Annette Mendola, Richard Gibson · 1 citation
Medicine · Psychology · #Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes #Gambling Behavior and Treatments #Mental Health Treatment and Access
paper · pdf · doi:10.1001/journalofethics.2016.18.6.sect1-1606
openalex publication_date 2016/06/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
Addiction is a complex phenomenon characterized by a loss of control and compulsive, habitual behavior. Since there is no single, specific cause for addiction, there is no single, standard treatment for it. A variety of approaches are used, including counseling, psychotherapy, medications, and mutual help groups (MHG). The best known and most widely available approach to addiction is 12-step (TS) programs of recovery, a variety of MHG. These have been lauded as lifesaving by some and criticized by others. We argue that TS programs are an appropriate mode of help for those seeking to quit an addiction but should not be the only approach considered.