twelve-step program

plural twelve-step programs · alternative twelve step program · alternative twelve step programme

1. An entity or plan which assists people in recovering from addiction through which an organized series of actions, usually including group discussion with people having the same problem.

   And you need a twelve-step program. You've got a problem, and it's called rodeo.

   1978, Margot Early, The Truth About Cowboys, page 34

   2 more examples

   Because punishment does so little to deter chemical addiction, liberal reformers usually prefer detox centers and twelve-step programs.

   1995, Christopher Jencks, The Homeless, page 46

   From consciousness-raising to coming out stories to twelve-step programs, the personal narrative has always held a place of honor in our community.

   1990, Bonnie Zimmerman, The Safe Sea of Women: Lesbian Fiction, 1969-1989, page 215