The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Sexual Victimization

Approximately 1 out of every 6 women in the United States has experienced attempted or completed rape (Tjaden & Thoennes, 2006). Fewer than one-fifth of these incidents are perpetrated by strangers, and at least half of all acquaintance sexual assaults involve alcohol consumption by the perpetrator, the victim, or, most commonly, both (Abbey, Zawacki, Buck, Clinton, & MacAuslan, 2004; Tjaden & Thoennes, 2006). The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief review and critique of research that examines the relationship between alcohol consumption and sexual victimization. The focus will be on victims’ experiences, including resistance during and psychological effects subsequent to alcohol-involved sexual assault incidents. This does not in any way imply that women are responsible for sexual assaults perpetrated against them. Rather, the goal is to understand sexual assault from the victim’s perspective so that women can be empowered to make informed decisions about alcohol use that may lower their risk. Consequently the paper will: 1) give a general overview of alcohol use in the United States; 2) define and discuss major types of alcohol effects; 3) provide information about the connection between alcohol consumption and sexual victimization; 4) discuss the relationship between alcohol consumption and sexual assault outcomes; 5) describe how a history of child sexual abuse may increase the risk for adult sexual assault; and 6) suggest ways in which this information can be used in risk reduction interventions and incorporated into work with sexual assault victims. Rape refers to vaginal, oral, or anal penetration obtained through force, threat of force, or the inability of the victim to provide consent. The term sexual assault is a more encompassing term and includes sexual acts ranging from non-consensual touching and kissing to attempted and completed rape. Alcohol-involved sexual assault is any sexual assault that occurs after the victim and/or the perpetrator has consumed alcohol and can be considered under its influence. A psychoactive drug is a drug that has effects on the brain and central nervous system. It can affect functions such as thinking, emotions, and motor control.