The most prominent 12-step program isAlcoholics Anonymous, also known as AA.
AA is a peer-run group with rotating leadership.
This article will explore the traditions of AA, particularly tradition 8.
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What Is Alcoholics Anonymous?
Founded in 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous was created by a man named Bill Wilson.
The group has twelve steps andtwelve traditionsthat serve as guidelines for the programs structure, leadership, and function.
In honoring these traditions, outsidedisruptions and stressorsare minimized, allowing the program to function as seamlessly as possible.
What Is Tradition 8?
Tradition 8 states, Alcoholics Anonymousshould remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
In other words, AA is a program of service.
This ties into an overarching theme in AA which is to give yourrecoveryaway.
Sharing your wisdom and insight can help give someone hope and support on their healing journey.
But, conversely, that also means there isnt someone in a position of power that members can defy.
The Meaning of Forever Non-Professional
There are members of AA who identify asmental healthand medical professionals.
However, their profession does not apply when engaging in the AA program.
Naturally, program members would be hired to work at the business.
What Are Special Workers?"
Alcoholics Anonymous is a huge organization and has service centers throughout the country.
These service centers take care of administrative work.
All of these tasks require more labor than what typical program volunteers provide.
To keep these essential services functioning, employees may be hired.
This is allowed by tradition 8.
The Importance of Tradition 8
Tradition 8 protects the group and the group members.
It protects the group by minimizing opportunities for controversy.
While there are leadership positions within AA, no individual leader hascomplete control over the group.
This is by design.
Past experiences informed the groups decision to ensure there were no authority figures within the group.
Finally, this tradition outlines clear boundaries of roles and transactions within the program.
Tradition 8 connects to each of the other traditions by protecting the individual who is seekingsobriety.
It is safe to say the power of the group would suffer significantly without tradition 8.
2013;24(4):237-246. doi: 10.1097/JAN.0000000000000003
Alcoholics Anonymous.Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.
