NCJ Number
191165
Journal
American Journal on Addictions Volume: 10 Issue: Supplement Dated: 2001 Pages: 70-85
Date Published
2001
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This study assesses the influence of alcohol on crime.
Abstract
In order to assess the influence of alcohol on violent and nonviolent crime, the researchers in this study enlisted outside observers who were graduate students to study police and citizen encounters. These observers used the "Alcohol Symptom Checklist" to determine the level of intoxication or impairment of both suspects and victims. The control variables within this study included demographic characteristics such as gender, race, age, and socioeconomic status. The results were then compared to the type of criminal encounter. It was concluded that suspects were far more likely to be intoxicated than were the victims. Suspects who were caught for vandalism and public disorder were far more likely to be intoxicated than not, and, surprisingly, the rate of alcohol involvement in violent crime was almost as high. The study found no clear causal relationship between intoxication and violence. Alcohol also contributed to violent victimization, such as spousal abuse. According to this study, alcohol intoxication plays a more significant role for groups who were less vulnerable to violence. These groups included whites, males, and persons belonging to a higher socioeconomic status. The findings within this study were valuable in terms of implications for public health policy. It was found that attempts to reduce drinking had little effect on alcohol-related violence; the most effective method focused on individuals and groups who were at risk for violent victimization. 5 tables, 114 references