Alcohol Abuse Does Not Cause Domestic Violence (From Domestic Violence: Opposing Viewpoints, P 63-70, 2000, Tamara L. Roleff, ed. -- See NCJ-185753)

• NCJ Number: 185761
• Author(s): Larry W. Bennett
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Greenhaven Press
• Publication Format: Book (Hardbound)
• Publication Type: Collected Work
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Opposing Viewpoints Series

Annotation

The author believes there is a link between alcohol abuse and domestic violence but contends substance abuse does not cause men to batter their wives.

Abstract

He asserts other factors, such as a child's home environment, exposure to drugs and alcohol, the abuser's education and income levels, and a need to control other people's behavior, are more likely to increase the risk of abusive behavior than alcohol abuse. Due to the interlinking relationship between substance abuse and domestic violence, however, the author maintains one problem cannot be treated without treating the other. He points out the relationship between substance abuse and the abuse of women is not simple and discusses the relationship in terms of violence causes and characteristics of abusers. Consideration is also paid to the disinhibition theory, a theory that suggests physiological effects of alcohol include a state of lowered inhibitions in which an individual can no longer control his or her behavior, and to the effects of alcohol on women. Recommendations are offered that focus on assessing risk factors and developing interventions and programs that target both substance abuse and the abuse of women.