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Published on: April 28, 2022
Relations between alcohol, violence and victimization in adolescence
J P Shepherd1, I Sutherland, R G Newcombe
1Violence Research Group, Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XY, UK. shepherdjp@cardiff.ac.uk
Journal of Adolescence
|July 26, 2006
Summary
Alcohol consumption and intoxication are linked to adolescent victimization, independent of aggression. Reducing alcohol misuse may decrease vulnerability to being a victim of violence.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Substance Use Research
- Criminology
Background:
- The relationship between alcohol and aggression is well-established, but alcohol's link to victimization is less understood.
- Adolescence is a critical period for both alcohol consumption and vulnerability to violence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the independent association between alcohol consumption and physical violence victimization in adolescents.
- To differentiate the effects of alcohol on victimization versus perpetration of violence.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 4187 adolescents aged 11-16 from 13 English schools.
- Data collected on alcohol consumption (frequency, drunkenness) and violent behaviors (fighting, hitting, being hit).
- Statistical analysis to determine significant relationships, controlling for age and sex.
Main Results:
- Alcohol consumption and drunkenness were significantly associated with fighting, hitting others, and being hit across all ages (p<0.0001).
- Drunkenness showed the strongest association with hitting others (OR 6.62), followed by being hit (OR 4.01).
- Alcohol consumption and drunkenness remained independently linked to victimization (being hit) even after accounting for violent behavior.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest a significant link between alcohol and adolescent victimization, separate from its association with aggression.
- Reducing alcohol intoxication may lower victimization rates without necessarily impacting violent behavior.
- Prevention strategies for violence should address alcohol misuse among potential victims as well as offenders.
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