The "Crisis Cult" as a Voluntary Association: an Interactional Approach to Alcoholics Anonymous

W. Madsen ("Alcoholics Anonymous as a Crisis Cult," in Alcohol Health and Research World, National Clearinghouse for Alcohol Information, spring, 1974) has inappropriately labeled Alcoholics Anonymous as a crisis cult. Identifying the limitations of this designation, an attempt is made to present an alternative approach to understanding the organization. Although the group does manifest certain cult characteristics, participant observation at group meetings show that interactional behaviors, rather than spiritual attitudes, have primary significance in achieving success. P. Hoye.