Understanding the Relational Dynamics of Recovery

The complexity of addiction requires an equally complex notion of recovery. Holistically, recovery is generally conceptualized across three classes of variables- individual, social, and ecological. The biopsychosocial model of recovery fits well within this framework. Expanding recovery conceptually to include the environmental sphere of variables has allowed for new contextual and structural factors to be … Continue reading Understanding the Relational Dynamics of Recovery

Reflections on Current Debates Regarding Recovery Definitions

Science evolves through collaboration, debates, support, and refutations between scientists. This fact is no less true in the science of recovery. Recent discussions regarding new boundaries in the definition of "recovery" illuminate the mechanics of what scientists, clinicians, and people in recovery feel are essential characteristics of recovery. As one of the authors regarding the … Continue reading Reflections on Current Debates Regarding Recovery Definitions

A Time of Hope and Trepidation in the State of the Art

On Las Meninas by Velasqez, Foucault writes, "In appearance, this locus is a simple one; a matter of pure reciprocity: we are looking at a picture in which the painter is in turn looking out at us. A mere confrontation, eyes catching one another’s glance, direct looks superimposing themselves upon one another as they cross. And yet … Continue reading A Time of Hope and Trepidation in the State of the Art

2020’s Top Ten Posts #1: 12-Step Skepticism and The Evidence

Recently, I have seen yet another wave of anti-12 step promotion via various digital formats and blogs. The various talking point involve, "AA is not evidence-based","AA has incredibly low success rates," and a variety of cultural criticisms and safety warnings. Time and time again I run across people who quite suddenly demand that I offer … Continue reading 2020’s Top Ten Posts #1: 12-Step Skepticism and The Evidence

Anthropometry of the Spiritual Body

Considerations for the Study of Spiritual Recovery CommunitiesAlcoholics Anonymous (AA) is not without its critics. Some criticisms are quite valid; others are less so. Like all spiritual communities, be they the Freemasons or the Falun Gong, outsiders often attribute various ills and misunderstandings to AA. The more valid criticisms, however, have little to do with … Continue reading Anthropometry of the Spiritual Body