NCJ Number
122458
Date Published
1987
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This literature review suggests that both alcohol and drug use have definite and distinct roles in conjugal violence, both for the abuser and for the victim.
Abstract
For this overview, conjugal violence is defined as "covert, intentional (nonaccidental), and physical aggression between spouses." Researchers' perceptions of the role of alcohol use by the batterer range from the medical perspective, which implicates alcohol as a crucial catalyst in certain psychiatric disorders, to the excuse perspective, which argues that the abuser consumes alcohol to provide a socially acceptable excuse for the violent behavior. Research, however, suggests that the complex interrelationship among a number of factors within the violent family precludes the use of one explanation. Study findings indicate that the level and pattern of alcohol use by the batterer influences conjugal violence. Men who are heavy or abusive drinkers tend to batter their wives significantly more often and inflict more injury than those who drink moderately or not at all. Regarding victim use of drugs and alcohol, U.S. researchers report the higher use of psychotropic drugs among battered women than among nonbattered women. This is believed to stem from the victim's need to alter or escape from the fear and anxiety occasioned by her victimization. These findings have implications for professionals who work with families.