Why is it called Alcoholics Anonymous when you have to tell them your name?

Answer 1

i`m always that pis sed , i carnt remember my name , same again barman ...

Answer 2

Because all information is kept confidential and they don't require ID or anything else to show who you are. You could even make up a name, but that sort of defeats the purpose since the point is to be honest and to get a sponsor (who needs a name and number). The point of the anonymous part is that there is no stigma that comes with being a part of the group and no requirement to tell others or recruit.

Answer 3

I think that standing up and saying "I'm Fred and I'm an alcoholic" isn't quite the same as giving them your name - yes they know your first name, but that's all you've told them. That's more about admitting that you have a problem and you want help - you could just as easily use a nickname, or false name, the fact that you've got up and made the statement is the start of the road to recovery.

Answer 4

you remain anonymous to anyone OUTSIDE the AA. inside, you come clean by opening up to your peers in your support group. the reason to open up is to acknowledge that "I, so and so, is an alcoholic". that is a confession which is targeted at being the starting point of your recognizing the problem, and then moving forward from there...

Answer 5

You only say your first name. You don't have to give phone number or address or profession or wife's name or kid's names. It truly is anonymous. Even if you are the only one in your town with your first name (which is unlikely), nobody would be able to find you. Truthfully, nobody gives a fig who you are anyway. The primary purpose is to stay sober and help other achieve sobriety.
-MM

Answer 6

People who deny their problem with drink usually are alcoholics and its when you attend AA and admit (in close company of others who also may be alcoholics) that you are an alcoholic, you use your first name only.

Answer 7

Because first names only are used and other information on those at the meeting is supposed to be confidential otherwise some people would not attend.

Answer 8

You only tell the first name and never have to divulge your position in society nor anything about yourself unless you want to. Also outside of AA no one has to know you belong and no one in AA will divulge information or even if you attend the meetings.

Answer 9

I have also wondered alcoholics usually are in denial the title gives them confidence to join thinking their secret is still hidden

Answer 10

I think it's when people leave, they keep the people they met and the things they talked about "anonymous".

Answer 11

You only have to tell them your first name, and nothing else about you. Also the group wants what goes on there to stay there.