S01E39 - “Take What You Like, and Leave the Rest”: A Qualitative Examination of How the Nonreligious Navigate Recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous in the United States

Caitlin Trombley’s 2026 study examines how nonreligious individuals successfully navigate recovery within Alcoholics Anonymous, a program traditionally rooted in spiritual concepts. Through qualitative interviews, the research reveals that secular members build a personalized recovery toolbox by redefining a "higher power" as nature or human connection and utilizing outside secular literature. Many participants find essential support in Secular AA groups, which provide a sense of belonging without requiring the adoption of religious dogmas. The findings suggest that the benefits of recovery, such as mindfulness and community support, are accessible through explicitly secular frameworks. Ultimately, the study highlights that personal autonomy and group fit are more critical to long-term sobriety than religious belief.Citation:Trombley, Caitlin. 2026. “‘Take What You Like, and Leave the Rest’: A Qualitative Examination of How the Nonreligious Navigate Recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous in the United States.” Journal of Religion and Health. doi:10.1007/s10943-026-02704-4.