So how can a 12 step system (which is based primarily on self control) be of any help at all?
Are you referring to someone who is already addicted or the "future addict" that it is inevitable that they will become addicted?
Its not based on self control its based on a support system, attending meetings, changing ones lifestyle, character change, filling the void, admitting powerlessness over the disease, finding a Higher Power, listening to a voice other than ones own, taking an inventory both globally and daily, sharing your inventory of yourself with another person and ypur Higher Power, asking for help from ypir higher power to have your defects of character removed, Making a list of people one harmed, making amends to those people, seeking a better connection to God and helping others who still suffer.
So now that you know what 12 steps are about, do you want to stick to your self control garbage. Educate yourself before you make blanket statements.
And yes, pre-addiction self control MAY help. Most addicts are predisposed and are deeply flawed individuals who usually end up acting out in one way or another. There is no way to prove someone is an addict and because of self control didnt act on the addiction.