Do you consider AA and similar 12-step groups to be mini-religions?

Question

If not, what makes them different from religions like Scientology which also promise psychological benefit but strongly, strongly encourage the purchase of their books, etc?

Answer 1

I wouldn't say so....the 2nd and 3rd step say this

2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him

A Power greaters then ourselves could be anything it also says God as WE understood him! Someone told me in a NA meeting your greater power can be anyting even the tree outside whatever you understand it as. When I entered NA I didn't believe in God and I prayed too something bigger and better then me I have no found God and through NA have remained sober for 3 years. I go too NA too keep clean and church too keep my soul clean. So I really don't think they are mini religions. This is just experience from going too almost daily meetings for 3 years!

Answer 2

They are faith based, so in that way they are like religions.  I don't feel they are an actual religion, just kind of like a supportive religious based group.