Alcohol and homicide in Australia

Jack Dearden and Jason Payne

Some research provides evidence to support the notion that alcohol consumption can affect behavioural change. Both Graham and Homel (2008) and Dingwall (2006) provide comprehensive reviews that outline various behavioural explanations described in the literature. These include the concept of alcohol myopia, or ‘alcohol short sightedness’, which suggests that alcohol causes people to focus only on proximal issues or the immediate situation, with limited regard to the consequences of their actions. This in turn creates a greater potential for violence. Other research on alcohol’s affect on the brain suggests alcohol makes it harder to appreciate other people’s perspectives, to problem solve and above all, makes drinkers more impulsive, emotional and introspective.

To read the complete AIC brief, click here.