| Description |
194 pages ; 24 cm |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references (pages 165-184) and index. |
| Summary |
In the aftermath of Prohibition, Americas top scientists joined forces with AA members and put their clout behind a campaign to convince the nation that alcoholism is a disease. They had no proof, but they hoped to find it once research money came pouring in. The campaign spanned decades, and from it grew a multimillion-dollar treatment industry and a new government agency devoted to alcoholism. But scientists research showed that problem drinking is not a singular disease but a complex phenomenon requiring an array of strategies. Theres less scientific evidence for the effectiveness of AA than there is for most other treatments, including self-enforced moderation, therapy and counseling, and targeted medications; AAs own surveys show that it doesnt work for the overwhelming majority of problem drinkers. Five years in the making, Joe Millers brilliant, in-depth investigative reporting into the history, politics, and science of alcoholism shows exactly how AA became our nations de facto treatment policy, even as evidence accumulated for more effective remediesand how, as a result, those who suffer the most often go untreated. US of AA shines a much-needed spotlight on the addiction treatment industry. It will forever change the way we think about the entire enterprise. |
| Subject |
Alcoholism -- Treatment -- United States.
|
| ISBN |
9781613739273 (cloth edition) |
|
1613739273 (cloth edition) |
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