Which of the following is a characteristic of 12-step programs?

The characteristic of 12-step programs is rooted in the emphasis on group-based mutual support. These programs, which include well-known models such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), function primarily on the power of shared experiences among individuals facing similar challenges with addiction. Participants attend regular meetings where they discuss their struggles, share successes, and support one another, fostering a sense of community and accountability.

The group dynamic is crucial in these programs as it allows individuals to feel understood and less isolated in their recovery journey. Through these mutual support interactions, members gain encouragement, inspiration, and guidance from peers who have experienced addiction and are in various stages of recovery. This communal aspect is a distinguishing feature of 12-step programs, setting them apart from treatment approaches that might focus on individualized therapy, medication, or technology-based interventions.