Investments (Trading Account Assets) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Amortized Cost	$ 7,135	$ 37,464
Fair Value	7,926	38,578
Fixed Maturities [Member] \| Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	1,964	30,800
Fair Value	2,029	31,571
Equity Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	5,171	6,664
Fair Value	$ 5,897	$ 7,007

This item represents marketable and other securities categorized as trading securities as of the balance sheet date that support certain products which are experience rated, meaning that it is expected the investment results associated with these products will ultimately accrue to contractholders.

No definition available.

Name:	cik881453_TradingAccountAssetsSupportingInsuranceLiabilitiesFairValue
Namespace Prefix:	cik881453_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant