Alcohol and violence: Why they’re so intrinsically linked

Throughout history, the link between alcohol and violence has always been prominent. In 2024 it’s as bigger problem as ever, in all manner of contexts, from the recent riots to Saturday afternoons at football.

Meanwhile, a report produced a couple of years ago suggests that men with alcohol problems are six times more likely to abuse their partner. Of course, women who abuse alcohol are also signficantly more likely to abuse their partners too, and for many the realisation of that comes to the fore when going through rehab for alcoholics when at breaking point.

Alcohol is thought to play a part in more than 1.2 million violent incidents each year in England and Wales alone, but why are the two so intrinsically linked?

The Effects of Alcohol on the Brain

The main reason alcohol is so closely tied to violence is due to the effect it has on the brain. Alcohol itself is a depressant, which effectively means that it slows down the functioning of the brain and impairs our cognitive ability.

When drunk in large volumes especially, it can impair judgement, lower inhibitions and prevent us from thinking clearly, a problematic cocktail when it comes to violence. It will increase the chance of loss of self-control, which in turn can lead to more aggressive behaviour.

What’s more, alcohol also is influencial in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for impulse control and decision making. When impaired, we become less capable of moderating and regulating our emotions, which makes it more difficult to control aggression. It’s the reason why minor differences in opinion can blow up quite quickly.

Alcohol as a Social Catalyst

The fact that alcohol is a social catalyst and drinking is seen as a way to bond with others can lead to more situations where people get a bit carried away and feel obliged to speak more freely or be more challenging in their behaviour. Which naturally, can increase the risk of things turning more violent.

Alcohol in many cultures, including the UK, can also promote a more toxic masculinity, where it’s “a laugh” to drink 10 pints. This can exacerbate aggressive behaviour and encourage people to be more assertive and dominant.

Domestic Violence and Alcohol

Worryingly, the link between booze and domestic violence is so strong. While it’s a problem for both men and women, you only have to look at the rise in cases following England football matches to put two and two together.

There are many reasons why this is the case. It can firstly exacerbate underlying issues within a relationship, which tend to rear their head when inhibitions are lowered and judgement is more impaired.

What’s more, it can create a cycle of abuse within households, with people often using alcohol as an excuse for their violent behaviour. However, that is only going to happen the next time they’re drunk, and the time after that. While victims may also turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism, creating a really troubling relationship and even more difficult to break that cycle.

Alcohol-Related Crime

Many crimes are often as a result of people being under the influence of alcohol, from street fights to even more serious matters like assault and homicide. In fact, reports have shown that one in five homicide suspects are recorded as being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

That’s all due to what’s been mentioned above, with the brain being more susceptible to violence. When you combine that with being in a bar, nightclub or at a sporting event, where emotions are further charged, it can prove a hotbed for conflict.

The Role of Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol dependence and addiction can also contribute to violent behaviour. Individuals who are dependent on alcohol may become aggressive when they are unable to obtain it, or when they are suffering from withdrawal symptoms. The desperation to drink can lead to violent actions, either in pursuit of alcohol or as a result of the physical and emotional turmoil caused by addiction.

Additionally, long-term alcohol abuse can cause significant changes in the brain, leading to increased aggression and impulsivity even when sober. This can make it difficult for individuals with alcohol dependence to maintain healthy relationships and can result in repeated violent behaviour.