A further outgrowth of the forcing “bottom” idea is the “intervention,” which is the basis for the popular reality TV show of the same name. Again, the idea is to confront the addicted person—typically in a big meeting that can even include their boss—and threaten to cut off all emotional and financial support if he or she doesn’t comply with recommended treatment. During the meeting, participants often harshly attack the addict, trying to “break through” to them and create a bottom. Again, this has a serious potential to backfire: there have been suicides immediately after interventions, most
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