• Module 1 - Attitudes
  • Introduction
  • The Function of Attitudes
  • Opportunites for Discussion
    • Ambivalence
    • Faith Tradition
    • Youth Experiences
    • Case Study
    • Final Reflection
• Module 2 - Awareness
  • Introduction
  • General Awareness Information
  • Salient Features
  • Stages of Alcoholism
  • Physiological Impact
  • Other Options
  • Handouts
• Module 3 - Assimilation
  • Introduction
  • Roles of Religious Leaders
  • Codependency
  • Class Activity
  • Case Study
  • Handouts
• Module 4 - Action
  • Introduction
  • General Considerations
  • "The Twelve Steps" Information
  • Factors
  • Phases
  • Additional Possibilities
  • Handouts

MODULE I: Attitudes

Introduction

 

Competency 10 – Be able to acknowledge and address values, issues and attitudes regarding alcohol and other drug use and dependence in:
Oneself
One's own family

Father Joseph Martin, well known author and speaker in the area of alcoholism states in his video, "Guidelines," that "we do not have attitudes, attitudes have us."¹ The salient point that he makes is that attitudes spawn actions! Our responses to situations involving the use and abuse of alcohol are predicated on prior experiences that have shaped our attitudes and consequently determine our actions. It is important to realize that attitudes constitute a significant spiritual issue! Those caught in the web of addiction can sense whether you care or condemn them. If you have not dealt with your own attitudes towards alcohol, alcoholism and alcoholics, you can in fact do more harm than good by alienating those who are seeking help, healing and health.

Module I is focused on the importance of knowing and acknowledging one's attitudes toward addicts and addictions. It emphasizes that each person (practicing clergy, seminarian or other student) is influenced by his/her pre-existing attitudes when dealing with the issue of addictions in general and alcohol in particular (including alcohol use, alcoholism and alcoholics). These attitudes are generally formed and further influenced earlier in life by some combination of: parents, peers, the media, religion and religious leaders, and personal experience. To be effective in the provision of pastoral care in situations that involve the use of addictive substances (whether by the person being cared for or by others), a care giver needs to be aware of the personal history, attitudes and responses that s/he brings to the table, whether consciously or subconsciously, intentionally or inadvertently.

1. "Guidelines for Helping the Alcoholic" presented by Father Joseph Martin (1976) is available for sale or rental through FMS productions, P.O. Box 5016,
Carpinteria, California 93014.

 

Module Home • Introduction • Function • Ambivalence • Faith Tradition • Youth Experiences • Case Study • Final Reflection

 

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