Research on the Effects of Alcohol on Aggression

Researchers have long studied the effects of alcohol on aggression. Through experimentation, data collection from homicide and domestic violence reports and even nonhuman research, scientists have been working to further understand the link between drinking and violence. Besides determining a correlation, this research serves to identify the possible causes, the results and (ideally) methods of prevention.

Violence and Alcohol Correlation

• A series of studies in the 1990s showed that perpetrators of rape, murder and other violent acts were likely to have consumed alcohol, particularly if the aggression shifted from verbal to physical in nature. Alcoholics in general are more likely to have a history of violent behavior, but not all alcoholics exhibit violent tendencies. One research psychologist attributes that difference to brain chemistry; reduced serotonin levels affect impulse control, and adding alcohol to the mix can prompt violent behavior. In fact, multiple studies have shown that even the suggestion of alcohol in a picture can increase aggressive thoughts.

Causes for Alcohol Misuse

• Apart from genetics and brain chemistry, many factors lead to over-drinking and violence. Risk-seeking or competitive personalities may be driven to drink more, thus opening themselves up to the possibility of becoming aggressive. Another issue is the environment. Heavy teen drinking, as seen on some college campuses, represents an area of rebellion without proper authority or responsibility -- exactly the climate that breeds fighting and violence. Some people drink to build confidence for a planned violent act, while others drink as a result of a troubled childhood, particularly women.

Alcoholism and Victimization

• Alcohol-related violence can create a cycle. An abuse victim often turns to drinking to deal with the physical and emotional pain of violence perpetrated by a heavy drinker. In this situation, drinking leads to violence which, in turn, leads to more drinking. In fact, victims of violent crimes are more likely to have been drinking than not, according to studies. This also indicates that it is impossible to make a direct correlation between alcohol and violence because for some it does not affect or even lowers aggression.

How to Avoid Aggressive Behavior While Drinking

• More than a third of violent crimes committed in the United Kingdom take place in or near bars, clubs or pubs. Avoid environments that promote drinking with little other entertainment if you think you may have a drinking problem or rage-control issues. Be aware that drinking can cause you to misread social cues, and consider carefully whether you are being provoked or simply noticed. Studies also show by limiting yourself to the recommended three or fewer drinks per day (keep a drink diary if necessary), you can reduce the risk of outbursts.