Addictive Thinking: Understanding Self-Deception

Addictive thought is inherently self-deceptive, yet offers a superficial logic that can be misleading to the addict as well as to the addict’s family members.

Abnormal thinking in addiction was originally recognized by members of Alcoholics Anonymous, who coined the term “stinking thinking.” Addictive thinking often appears rational, but only on a superficial level. Addicts, as well as their family members, are easily seduced by the attendant–and erroneous–reasoning process it can foster.

In Addictive Thinking, author Abraham Twerski reveals how self-deceptive thought can undermine self-esteem and threaten the sobriety of a recovering individual.

This timely revision of the original classic includes updated information and research on depression and mood disorders, the relationship between addictive thinking and relapse, and the origins of addictive thought. Ultimately, Addictive Thinking offers hope to those seeking a healthy and rewarding life in recovery.

Dr. Twerski is founder and medical director of the Gateway Rehabilitation Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A rabbi, psychiatrist, and chemical dependency counselor, he is the author of numerous journal articles and books including Self Discovery in Recovery, I Didn’t Ask to be in This Family: Sibling Relationships and How They Shame Adult Behavior and Dependencies, and with “Peanuts” cartoonist Charles Schulz, When Do the Good Things Start?

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Addictive Thinking: Understanding Self-Deception

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Related Reading:

Alcoholics Anonymous: The Big Book, 4th Edition
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
12 Smart Things to Do When the Booze and Drugs Are Gone: Choosing Emotional Sobriety through Self-Awareness and Right Action
High Sobriety: My Year Without Booze