Abstract
The dominant theoretical approach to alcoholism research presumes linear, causal relationships between individual cognitions
and behavioral outcomes. This approach has largely failed to account for the recovery some alcoholics achieve in Alcoholics
Anonymous (AA) because AA emphasizes the transformation of identity, framed in terms of relationships rather than cognitions
and behaviors. George Kelly’s personal construct theory (PCT) provides a ready means of theorizing that transformation by
explaining how AA helps alcoholics resolve four identity-relevant dialectics. The basic postulate of PCT addresses changes
in stigma: normal vs. deviant identity. The construction corollary illustrates changes in perspective: subjective vs. objective
view of identity. The individuality corollary informs changes in affiliation: unique vs. common identity. And the organization
corollary illuminates changes in stability: fluctuating vs. permanent identity. As an alternative to causal approaches focusing
on cognition and behavior, PCT should facilitate further research into alcoholism as a disorder of identity transformation.
and behavioral outcomes. This approach has largely failed to account for the recovery some alcoholics achieve in Alcoholics
Anonymous (AA) because AA emphasizes the transformation of identity, framed in terms of relationships rather than cognitions
and behaviors. George Kelly’s personal construct theory (PCT) provides a ready means of theorizing that transformation by
explaining how AA helps alcoholics resolve four identity-relevant dialectics. The basic postulate of PCT addresses changes
in stigma: normal vs. deviant identity. The construction corollary illustrates changes in perspective: subjective vs. objective
view of identity. The individuality corollary informs changes in affiliation: unique vs. common identity. And the organization
corollary illuminates changes in stability: fluctuating vs. permanent identity. As an alternative to causal approaches focusing
on cognition and behavior, PCT should facilitate further research into alcoholism as a disorder of identity transformation.
- Content Type Journal Article
- DOI 10.1007/s11469-010-9303-4
- Authors
- Lance Brendan Young, The Center for Research in the Implementation of Innovative Strategies in Practice, Iowa City VA Medical Center, 601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
- Journal International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction
- Online ISSN 1557-1882
- Print ISSN 1557-1874