Self Help

Sexual Abuse and Assault

The Link Between Alcohol Abuse and Date Rape

In the majority of rapes on college campuses, both parties involved had been drinking - often to excess. Alcohol lowers inhibitions and can often heighten the desire for sexual activity. Those who expect sex after they have been drinking may use force if they encounter resistance.

Fifty-five percent of the college men who acknowledged committing sexual assault on a date reported being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the assault. In the same study, 53 percent of the college women who experienced sexual aggression on a date reported that they were under the influence at the time of the assault.

Communication also suffers when alcohol is involved. It is hard enough to communicate about sex when sober. Trying to communicate and make good decisions when drinking is impossible for most people.