Spirituality and Addiction: A Research and Clinical Perspective

Abstract

Spirituality is a construct that has recently gained currency among clinicians because of its close association with twelve‐step modalities and its perceived role in the promotion of meaningfulness in recovery from addiction. This article draws on studies from physiology, psychology, and cross‐cultural sources to examine its nature and its relationship to substance use disorders. Illustrations of its potential and limitations as a component of treatment in spiritually oriented recovery movements like Alcoholics Anonymous, meditative practices, and treatment systems for the dually diagnosed are given.