NCJ Number
225523
Date Published
2006
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This fact sheet summarizes the role of alcohol in youth violence, the magnitude of the problem, risk factors for involvement in alcohol-related youth violence, prevention measures, and the role of public health.
Abstract
The report first outlines links between alcohol effects and violent behavior, followed by a review of the magnitude of alcohol-related youth violence at the global level. Although acknowledging that uniform data for cross-national comparisons of youth alcohol consumptions are scarce, this report notes that available international data suggest that a youth culture of excessive drinking is spreading internationally and involves both males and females. In addition, studies conducted in numerous countries have identified links between nonfatal youth violence and harmful alcohol consumption by both perpetrators and victims. Many studies, mostly in developed countries, have specifically examined alcohol-related violence and its associated risk factors. Males are more likely than females to be both perpetrators and victims of alcohol-related youth violence. The consequences of youth violence are far-reaching, impacting the health and well-being of victims, relationships with family and friends, levels of fear in communities, and pressure on health and other public services. A range of prevention programs that target parents and children from infancy to adolescence have been successful in reducing youth violence. The public health approach to violence prevention uses a wide range of data and research to provide a better understanding of the extent, causes, and risks of violence, so as to tailor intervention to the needs of individuals and populations most at risk. At both national and international levels, health organizations have a key role in advocating for policies that address the relationships between alcohol use and violence.