WFS was created by sociologist Jean Kirkpatrick in 1976 as an alternative to twelve-step addiction recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
[2] In her design, as in AA, WFS encourages the open and hosting sharing but focuses on improving self-esteem and reducing guilt rather than admitting powerlessness.
[3] As is practiced in SMART Recovery, WFS members avoid labeling themselves as alcoholics and addicts and instead refer to themselves as competent women during meeting introductions.
[2] The First, Second, Tenth, Twelfth, and Thirteenth Affirmations were changed at some point in the 1990s[citation needed] these originally appeared, respectively, as "I have a drinking problem that once had me, Negative emotions destroy only myself, All love given returns twofold, I am a competent woman and have much to give to others, I am responsible for myself and my sisters.
They originally appeared (after the 1990s edit), respectively, as "Happiness is a habit I will develop, Problems bother me only to the degree I permit them to, I am a competent woman and have much to give life.
The opening is followed by discussion among members based on a topic from WFS literature (e.g. acceptance, stress, compulsions, procrastination or one of the thirteen affirmations).
[3] At the meeting closing members hold hands and recite the WFS motto, "We are capable and competent, caring and compassionate, always willing to help another, bonded together in overcoming our addictions.
[7] A turning point represents an event or state that made WFS members realize they needed to do something about their drinking.
Women who had a turning point entailing a realization that their life was out of control achieved sobriety in less than average time (two years).
Ninety-two percent of WFS members, however, believe their state of mind is the most important factor in maintaining sobriety.
[3] WFS members who attended AA reported they did so primarily as insurance against relapse (28%), its availability (25%), for sharing (31%), and support (27%).
In this way, the size and number of WFS meetings remain static but does not necessarily reflect a decline in the group's popularity.
For instance, women with limited financial resources may find it difficult to accept that "problems bother her only to the extent she allows them."
Depressed women may find it difficult to make enthusiasm a daily exercise, or accept happiness as a habit to develop.
Similarly, positive thinking affirmations have been interpreted as asking women to deny their real feelings and inhibiting recovery.
The intention of the affirmations is behavior modification, asking WFS members not to dwell on past problems is intended to prevent them from drinking.
By practicing affirmations and positive thinking, it is believed WFS members slowly change their habits and their thoughts become reality.