Assaultive behavior in bars: a gendered comparison

This research assesses the prevalence, nature, and arrest patterns of barroom aggression; it includes a cross-national sample of men and women involved in simple or aggravated assault. Prior research indicates bars are a haven for assaults; however, little research has focused on female involvement in barroom assault. Data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System are used to assess differences between men (n=9262) and women (n=2787) involved in barroom assaults during 2005. Results shed light on an understudied population of barroom offenders. Specifically, women are younger than their male counterparts and more likely to use a weapon during a barroom altercation. Additionally, while barroom assault is intrasexual in nature, women are more likely than men to assault outside their sex.