AFTERWORD

When I began writing this book in October, 2011, my
knowledge of other people’s experiences was minimal. That
changed. Men and women throughout the United States have
related their own personal experiences in 12-Step programs–
experiences which clearly meet the definition of “horror stories.”

My experiences are by no means unique– and by no
means uncommon. People who turn to 12-Step programs for
help, friendship, answers, solutions, often find themselves in
dangerous situations with dangerous individuals– and no one to
turn to for assistance. There have been various incidents of
murder; rape and sexual assaults are very common; and, what
has been the universal experience of countless numbers of men
and women: psychological abuse.

Because of these experiences, many former 12-Step
program members suffer from, are receiving help for, and cope
with depression, anxiety disorders, and even Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorder– not because of their ‘childhoods,’ not because
of their ‘relationships,’ not because of their ‘pasts,’ but because of
their experiences in these Programs.

Many former members have also been attempting
deprogramming. As most average people cannot afford
professional services for this often-misunderstood process, there
are few resources other than individuals trying to work these
issues out themselves, seeking help from support groups and
similar contacts. The fact is the abuse and psychological tactics
that occur within the programs are so widespread and so extreme
that it brings a new meaning to the word “recovery.”

What it comes down to: is there any legitimate
reason human beings should be in the position of tolerating all
kinds of abuses or worse, the destruction of their families, the
destruction of their lives– and feel they must either remain silent
or put themselves in further danger?

One would think that in the United States of America,
human beings not only have “certain unalienable rights,” but that
those rights must be taken seriously.