In Alcoholics Anonymous what is the meaning of shortcomings & charactor defects? Are they the same?

Answer 1

Bill Wilson used them interchangeably.

He had a few character defects of his own, but seemed to want to hold onto them: between:
"This does not mean we expect all our character defects to be lifted out of us as the drive to drink was."
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, William Wilson, page 65.

and:

"Never forget that resentment is a deadly hazard to an alcoholic. We do not mean that you have to agree with your husband whenever there is an honest difference of opinion. Just be careful not to disagree in a resentful or critical spirit." Big Book, William G. Wilson, "To Wives", page 117,

Bill seemed to be saying, "Yes, I have faults, but don't nag me or I'll drink again!" It's almost like he was writing in loopholes so he could continue to carry on affairs right in front of his wife Lois and she couldn't call him on it.

But what did Wilson mean when he talked about shortcomings and defects? Sin really:
http://orange-papers.org/orange-bait-switch.html#progressive_terminology

Answer 2

I think in som ways they are the same thing, but there also may be subtle differences. I think of a character defect as something that is not our fault, but once recognized, can be worked on. A shortcoming may be the willful manifestation of a character defect - in other words, we know we have the character defect, but we let our guard down and let it dictate our behavior.

I was a meeting where we discussed this very issues, and that's sort of what we came up with. It may not be the best definition, but at least it gave me something to think about.

Love, Jack.

Answer 3

It has been found that most who have addictions that reach the stage where they must be treated have an underlying condition, a chemical imbalance that leads them to compulsuve behavior in order to attempt to treat themselves informally with OTC medication (alcohol, cigarettes, drugs). This underlying condition manifests itself as character defects, since this imbalance cause them to behave erratically, compulsively, outside their best interest, etc. However the condition tends to exaggerate and prolong bad behavior with a sense of the lack of control one has over an imbalance. But as one progresses they are able to recognize that not all defects are directly caused by the imbalance and can be dealt with psychotherapy and talking, minus the use of "self-medication."

Answer 4

they are basically the same and refer to bad behaviors

Answer 5

ask your sponsor, not strangers.