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Bringing "Booze" Back In: The Relationship Between Alcohol and Homicide

NCJ Number
153200
Journal
Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1995) Pages: 3-38
Author(s)
R N Parker
Date Published
1995
Length
36 pages
Annotation
State homicide rates during 1981, 1982, and 1983 were studied to test hypotheses concerning the relationship between alcohol and homicide from four major theoretical perspectives and to derive specific predictions based on previous research on the causes of types of homicide.
Abstract
The theoretical perspectives included socioeconomic approaches, subcultural approaches, deterrence, and routine activities. The analysis focused on five types of homicide rates. Results revealed that alcohol consumption rates change the way important predictors such as poverty and deterrence are related to specific types of homicide. Alcohol consumption has important direct net effects on two types of primary homicide, and alcohol regulation interacted with other forms of social control like capital punishment. Results also provided support for a rational choice-based interaction between alcohol consumption and the application of death sentences. Tables, appended tables, notes, and 84 references (Author abstract modified)