Spirituality is one of the most frequently discussed — and often misunderstood — components of 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). While some view the spiritual aspects as central to recovery, others worry that the emphasis on a “higher power” may alienate those who identify as atheists or agnostics.

This post explores the role of spirituality in 12-Step programs, clarifying its purpose and how it can foster long-term recovery, regardless of religious belief.

Spirituality vs. Religion in 12-Step Programs

One of the key misconceptions about AA and NA is that they require religious faith. However, research shows that spirituality in 12-Step programs is often broader than traditional religion.

Vaillant (2013) describes spirituality in AA as a combination of positive emotions — love, hope, joy, forgiveness, and gratitude — rather than adherence to specific religious practices or dogma. This emotional framework helps members develop resilience and maintain motivation in their recovery journey.

In fact, NA’s literature emphasizes that members are encouraged to define their own concept of a higher power, which may represent:

• A personal belief in God or a divine force

• The collective strength of the group or the Fellowship

• Abstract concepts like love, nature, higher self etc.

Empirical Evidence on Spirituality and Recovery

Kelly and Eddie (2020) found that participants who actively engaged in spiritual practices through AA reported:

• Higher rates of abstinence

• Greater emotional well-being

• Reduced relapse risk

The study highlights that spirituality often enhances psychological coping, particularly during moments of emotional distress or crisis.

Additionally, Vederhus and Høie (2018) found that long-term NA members described spirituality as a source of emotional grounding, mindfulness, and connection.

Key Spiritual Practices in 12-Step Programs

Several spiritual practices are woven into the fabric of 12-Step programs, offering members tools to foster hope and personal growth:

• Prayer and Meditation (Step Eleven): Encourages grounding and emotion regulation.

• Gratitude and Service (Step Twelve): Promotes helping others, which reinforces personal growth and sense of purpose.

• Surrender (Steps One to Three): Cultivates serenity, hope, and acceptance of personal limitations, allowing members to focus on what they can control.

The Pragmatic Approach to Spirituality

Vederhus and Høie (2018) describe many 12-Step participants as “pragmatic believers.” While they may not fully understand or define their higher power, they engage in spiritual practices because they find them beneficial to their recovery.

This flexible, experiential approach allows individuals to engage with spirituality on their own terms, fostering personal meaning without dogma or rigid belief systems.

Addressing Skepticism about Spirituality

For individuals who struggle with the spiritual aspects of 12-Step programs, members often offer reassurance by emphasizing that:

• Spirituality is personal and adaptable.

• Participation in meetings and service is valuable, even without a fully-formed belief in a higher power.

• Recovery can be achieved by focusing on community and shared experience.

Ultimately, the spiritual component of AA and NA serves to curb cravings and urges, promote connection, and instill a sense of wellness and empowerment.

Key Takeaways

• Spirituality in 12-Step programs is broad and flexible, focusing on emotional and mental well-being rather than religious doctrine.

• Empirical studies show that spiritual engagement in AA/NA correlates with higher abstinence rates and improved emotional health.

• Members define spirituality in diverse ways, from belief in a divine power to selfless practices and personal growth.

By fostering a sense of connection, serenity, and hope, spirituality offers another tool for healing and recovery in 12-Step programs.

Up Next:

The final post in this series will offer concluding insights on the multifaceted mechanisms behind 12-Step program success.

References

Kelly, J. F., & Eddie, D. (2020). The role of spirituality and religiousness in aiding recovery from alcohol and other drug problems: An investigation in a national U.S. sample. Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, 12(1), 116–123. https://doi.org/10.1037/rel0000295

Vederhus, J., & Høie, M. (2018). The pragmatic believer—faith development and personal experiences of a ‘higher power’ in seasoned members of Narcotics Anonymous. Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion, 29, 123–144.

Vaillant, G. E. (2013). The Spiritual Evolution: How We Are Wired for Faith, Hope, and Love. Harvard University Press.