Character defects and flaws in addiction recovery are negative personality traits or behaviors that can make it hard for a person to stay sober and live the life they deserve. These defects can be a significant barrier to success in recovery, as they often contribute to addictive behaviors and can prevent individuals from developing healthy relationships and coping skills. Common character defects and flaws in addiction recovery include selfishness, anger, defensiveness, and dishonesty.
At CuraSouth, we believe these character defects are surmountable when individuals are motivated and provided with the tools and resources they need to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. Highly qualified medical and mental health professionals who specialize in addiction facilitate our comprehensive programs and customized treatment plans. If you’ve been struggling with addiction and are ready to overcome the thoughts and feelings that have led to your substance misuse, contact us today to learn more.
What Is a Character Flaw or Defect?
A character flaw is an aspect of a person’s personality that can make it difficult for them to work well in relationships or function in society. These flaws can and often do cause significant problems in many different areas of life.
Examples of Character Flaws Related to Addiction Include:
- Selfishness—Addiction is often linked to a focus on oneself, and people who have it often have trouble putting the needs of others ahead of their own destructive urges. (1)
- Impulsivity—Acting on impulse can lead to poor decision-making and taking risks, both of which can lead to relapse.
- Fear—Fear is a powerful emotion that controls behaviors in many ways. It’s a visceral reaction that hijacks the brain, and if an individual attempting to overcome addiction continues to operate under its control, unhealthy decisions can be the result. Moreover, their choices may be heavily influenced by the desire to reexperience the “safe” and comfortable feelings once achieved through substance use.
- Self-Pity—Defined as “a self-indulgent dwelling on one’s own sorrows or misfortunes”, self-pity can keep individuals wallowing in their own unfortunate circumstances and making excuses for their behaviors instead of resolving them. (2)
- Anger—Unresolved anger and resentment can make it challenging for individuals to maintain healthy, functional relationships.
- Defensiveness—Newly abstinent individuals may be defensive about their addiction or their progress in recovery, making it difficult for them to welcome and receive feedback and support.
- Dishonesty—Lying and other deceptive behaviors can damage relationships and undermine trust. This includes lying to others as well as oneself. (3)
- Perfectionism—Perfectionism can lead to unrealistic expectations and a fear of failure, which can induce feelings of unworthiness and result in relapse.
- Avoidance—Trying to avoid uncomfortable feelings or situations can keep a person from dealing with deeper problems and lead to relapse.
As part of the recovery process, it is important to identify these character flaws and continue to address them. This may involve engagement in therapy, support groups, and practicing healthier coping mechanisms. By addressing these issues, individuals can develop the skills necessary to maintain sobriety and foster a fulfilling life in recovery.
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Character Flaws & 12-Step Recovery
Character flaws play an important role in 12-step recovery programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). The 12-step approach recognizes that character defects contribute to addiction, relapse, and are obstacles to recovery. Individuals are asked to identify and address them as part of the recovery process.
The 12-step program encourages individuals to take a fearless moral inventory of themselves, which involves identifying their character defects and taking responsibility for their actions. (4) The program also stresses the importance of making amends for past wrongs and developing positive character traits such as honesty, humility, and gratitude.
In 12-step recovery, dealing with character flaws is an ongoing process, and people are encouraged to continue self-reflection and personal improvement throughout their sobriety journey. Many people in recovery find that working on their character flaws helps them stay sober and improves their well-being and relationships with others.
Step 6 & the Immersion Program of Recovery
Step 6 of the 12-step recovery program states: “We’re entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” This step involves becoming prepared to let go of the negative behaviors and patterns that have been identified in previous steps and to develop a new way of living. A 12-step immersion program is a specific approach to treating addiction that helps people fully immerse themselves in a lifestyle that supports recovery. This approach can be a helpful tool for individuals working through Step 6 of the 12-step program.
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The Immersion 12 Step Experience
A 12-step immersion program combines the principles of the 12-steps with intensive addiction treatment. (5) This program features a comprehensive approach intended to help individuals achieve long-lasting recovery. The primary objective is to create an environment where people can effectively replace their old behaviors and patterns with new ones in line with their recovery goals.
A 12-step immersive experience often involves a residential stay at a treatment center, and engagement in various therapeutic treatment methods and activities. These may include support groups, therapy, counseling, and healthy hobbies and interests. An immersion program may also incorporate alternative therapies, such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices. These activities can help individuals develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and cultivate inner peace and well-being that can be valuable in managing cravings and triggers.
One thing that makes the 12-step immersion experience unique is that it focuses on building a community of support among participants of the program. Through group therapy sessions, social activities, and shared experiences, individuals are able to develop relationships with others who are also working towards recovery. This can provide them with a sense of mutual respect, accountability, and support essential for maintaining sobriety over the long term.
Confronting Character Flaws in Recovery
Facing character flaws is an important part of getting better because it helps people identify and remedy the destructive habits and behaviors that contributed to their addiction. By confronting these flaws, individuals can gain a greater understanding of themselves and their motivations, and develop new coping mechanisms and strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors.
Strategies Used to Confront Character Flaws Include:
- Self-reflection—Taking time to reflect on one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can help individuals identify the dysfunctional patterns and behaviors fueling their addiction. (6)
- Asking for Feedback—Asking trusted friends, family members, or a therapist for feedback can help people see their behavior in a new light and find ways to improve.
- Developing New Habits—By purposefully practicing new behaviors and habits, individuals can gradually replace negative patterns with positive ones.
- Participating in Therapy—Working with a therapist or counselor can provide those who are working on their recovery with the support and guidance they need to face their flaws in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Confronting character flaws in recovery can be challenging and uncomfortable, but by working to recognize and resolve one’s character flaws, individuals can develop the skills and strategies needed to maintain their sobriety over the long term.
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Character flaws such as impulsivity, low self-esteem, anxiety, and emotional mismanagement can all contribute to substance misuse by making it difficult for individuals to fight the urge to use addictive drugs or alcohol. People can take an active role in their recovery and build a healthier, happier life by working with a therapist or counselor, taking part in a 12-step program, and practicing new behaviors and habits.
If you are ready to overcome active addiction and obstacles to long-lasting sobriety, reach out to CuraSouth to speak to a skilled Treatment Advisor. Learn more about our streamlined admissions process and full continuum of care, and receive a free, no-obligation health benefits check. Contact us to begin your journey to long-lasting recovery today.
Reviewed for accuracy by:
Travis Atchison
LCSW, MCAP
Travis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addiction Professional. He has worked in various community-based settings, where he served families and couples, addressed issues related to homelessness and crisis and worked in a substance abuse setting.
