What is the key characteristic of Alcoholics Anonymous as stated in Tradition 8?

The key characteristic of Alcoholics Anonymous as stated in Tradition 8 is that A.A. should remain nonprofessional, while allowing for the possibility that service centers may employ special workers. This emphasizes that the primary structure of A.A. is based on mutual support among individuals who share a common purpose of overcoming alcoholism, rather than relying on professional counselors or therapists to lead the groups.

Maintaining a nonprofessional approach ensures that A.A. remains accessible to anyone seeking help without the barriers that professional credentials might impose. It also fosters an environment where members can connect with one another on an equal footing, sharing experiences and support rather than receiving treatment in a hierarchical manner. The option allows for the necessary administrative or support tasks to be fulfilled, but the essence of the program remains rooted in peer support and shared experience.