The UTC Graduate School is pleased to announce that Kelly Shaw will present Doctoral (EdD) research titled, An Examination of Leadership Approaches in Alcoholics Anonymous as Perceived by its Members on 03/20/2026 at 9:00 AM via Zoom (Zoom Meeting ID: https://tennessee.zoom.us/j/85390858204). Everyone is invited to attend.
Learning and Leadership
Chair: Dr. David W. Rausch
Co-Chair:
Abstract:
This research analyzed leadership dynamics within Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a 12-step recovery group that operates without traditional organizational structures. Although AA’s Ninth Tradition emphasizes minimal formal organization, it allows the formation of service boards and committees. This contradiction raises questions about how AA functions effectively without a clearly defined leadership model. Using a qualitative approach, this study aimed to identify the type of leadership present within AA and explore its impact on maintaining sobriety. Additionally, the study examined AA members’ perceptions of leadership and how leadership is reflected in the organization’s practices. Applying the six-phase reflexive thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke (2019) , the researcher identified the themes of Sponsorship as Leadership, Sobriety Length as Leadership, Community as Leadership, and Service as Leadership. The findings offer valuable insights into decentralized leadership in recovery organizations and the potential to support sustained sobriety and personal growth.