Often, a little more than enough drink can alter your behaviours in ways beyond your control. That, after a night of drinking, you wake up hungover and sometimes unable to recall the events of the previous night. Then, people begin to use the excuse of “it was the alcohol”, blaming the alcohol for their bad judgement.

Either way, it is undeniable that alcohol affects our decisions, such that we act in ways we usually wouldn’t. Some would say it “frees” us up to act carefree. It is important, therefore, to examine the influence of alcohol on the lives of drinkers as it relates to their decision-making.

Several studies have researched the influence of alcohol on the lives of people, but one study that holds is that alcohol doesn’t blunt out consciousness.

They argue that people despite being drunk remain aware of whatever decision they make at that moment. But what alcohol does is make them give no regard for the consequences of such action, they don’t bother with the consequences.

Alcohol furthermore, makes us reactive rather than proactive. It causes us to make immediate decisions that we would have rather thought through before attempting. When intoxicated, we are prone to irrational decisions rather than rational decisions.

Also, alcohol clouds the mind and makes people act without fear. A drunk person is more likely to jump off an unsafe cliff than a sober person. So, you can say alcohol gives us wings to fly, but in reality, the reverse is the case, as it is often applicable to negative circumstances.

Alcohol’s influence on our decisions is more inclined towards negative rather than positive impacts. The implications are often regretful and in some cases severe for individuals. In summary, alcohol makes an individual irrational in decision-making, caring not about the consequences of his/her actions led by the booze.

There exists an intricate link between alcohol and crime in every society. The effects of alcohol abuse are usually felt in society in various ways, but a standout one is the crime rate. Studies have shown someone under the influence of alcohol is likely to commit a crime than someone not under the influence of alcohol.

Therefore, preventive measures for alcohol abuse have also been said to help avert crime in society. Looking closely at this assertion, this article will highlight some ways in which preventing alcohol abuse can help reduce crime. Note that the implications of alcohol abuse prevention on crime rate may vary based on society and other circumstances.

Some ways in which preventing alcohol abuse can help avert crime include;

• Often, those who commit crimes are under the influence of alcohol, for alcohol devoid them of their rationality. People steal or rob to be able to afford their alcohol addiction, which means that a large population of burglary is related to alcohol abuse. Therefore, attempts to prevent alcohol abuse will reduce the burglary rate in the community.
• Controlling or preventing alcohol abuse also helps to reduce re-offence by offenders. This is because proper treatment for alcohol abusers will help them get over their addiction, which in turn reduces the likelihood of them committing a crime. A sober person retains his or her consciousness and regard for the consequences of his or her action.
• Sexual harassment crimes can be averted with the prevention of alcohol abuse. It is no secret that most sexual harassment offenders are under the influence of alcohol. This means therefore that, if alcohol abuse is reduced, sexual harassment crimes will equally be reduced.

In summary, alcohol abuse is a major issue facing world communities, which translates into a high rate of crime in most communities. But as discussed above, a proper and effective preventive mechanism for alcohol abuse will equally translate into a reduction of crime rate in most cases. So, a community seeking to avert crime should consider preventing alcohol abuse as an effective strategy.

Do you find yourself drinking to relax, driving under the influence of alcohol, having problems with friends and family because of drinking? Perhaps, you also have legal issues because of alcohol, or you are often neglecting responsibilities, then you are most likely suffering from alcohol abuse. 

Alcohol abuse arises when you drink too much alcohol on occasion and too often such that your drinking habits often cause you to exhibit some risky behaviors and poor judgments.

Alcohol abuse can cause severe health conditions such as cirrhosis, a disease of the liver, or worsen certain disorders, for example, osteoporosis, or can prevent an early diagnosis of heart disease.

Most times, treatments for alcohol abuse are focused on helping you learn to control your level of alcohol consumption.

First, recognize you need help so, commit yourself to stay sober and practice healthier drinking habits. Treatment often aims at finding healthy ways to manage stress, therapy, and learning new skills to cope with managing your alcohol consumption.

 Effective treatments for alcohol abuse are:

1. Medication: Treatment can be through medical management using alcohol-deterrent medications, such as Revia or Vivitrol (naltrexone) or as prescribed by doctors. These medications will help you reduce symptoms of withdrawal and can also help you quit drinking. They tend to block the feeling of intoxication and help reduce cravings or make you feel sick upon alcohol consumption.
2. Behavioral therapy: This includes specialized alcohol counseling or joining support groups consisting of people with the same issue. You could also be involved in both counseling and support groups. These can increase your chance of recovery from alcohol abuse.

You must note that treatment would work differently per individual so, you should ensure you find a treatment that is most effective for you and find it sooner.

Crime is a social issue that is constantly increasing globally with several motivating factors varying per individual and society.

Generally, however, alcohol has proven to be a motivating factor of crime, and alcohol intoxication in itself under certain circumstances such as driving is criminal. Intoxication comes with some effects like the tendency of being loud, disruptive, aggressive, and belligerent.

Alcohol damages the side of the brain needed to stop impulses and control the ability to foresee the consequences of an action. Therefore, alcohol severely damages a person’s judgment when such a person is intoxicated.

It results in such persons taking risks and committing acts that they, on the contrary, would never have done. Likewise, they are more likely to be talked into something they otherwise would not do, some of which could be criminal. 

Moreover, levels of dopamine, one of the chemical messengers responsible for sending signals of pleasure, in the brain is increased by alcohol. It creates a buzz and makes a person derive pleasure from most actions he makes under the influence of alcohol. Hence, committing crimes could seem enticingly pleasurable.

Furthermore, the activities of the prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain that is involved in decision making and which helps a person think rationally and clearly, are decreased by alcohol. Hence, an effect of alcohol consumption is that it prompts a person to act without thinking about his/her actions.

The prefrontal cortex is also partly responsible for your sense of control over your emotions and behaviors. It can gravely impact the aggression level of a person, making such one prone to violence, anger, and a high level of hostility.

These emotions are provocative and can make it more likely that individuals will want to commit violence against another as alcohol consumption will reduce your ability to control your emotions.

Drinking alcohol does not mean that person is going to be a criminal. At the same token, not consuming alcohol does not prevent someone from committing crimes.

However, extensive research on the topic of alcohol and crime suggest that alcohol consumption and criminal behavior are closely connected.

There is an obvious pattern or logical flow of links between drinking, poor decision making, criminal behavior, and legal consequences. The proof of this thinking is shown by the fact that so many people currently serving time in prisons or living with the stigma of a criminal record have a history of problem drinking.

It is also indisputable that there are consequences related to family, society and career when drinking is severe and when it affects the normal functioning of the mind or body.

Seeking treatment and rehabilitation for alcohol addiction or problematic drinking habits is the best way to avoid the worst possible consequences.

Problematic drinking has many, many negative consequences. It can’t be overlooked that one of the worst is passing on the same problematic habits to others.

As part of understanding alcohol abuse and crime, it is useful to know the common kinds of criminal behaviors and what kinds of penalties they carry. But another important consideration is the impact of these criminal behaviors on the victims.

Lack of control over alcohol use rarely has one victim, and the consequences are rarely short lived.

Crimes associated with alcohol abuse are likely to cause the offender to lose some money or freedom. But, more importantly, those crimes usually have long-lasting impacts on family, friends, or even complete strangers. The problem may be centered on one person, but the consequences have ripple effects.

Crimes generally associated with alcohol include domestic abuse and violence, underage drinking, robbery, assault and rape.

Alcohol is considered more likely to be a reason in violence where the attacker and the victim know each other. About two-thirds of crimes committed by an intimate person such as a spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend have been reported to be related to alcohol consumption.

Victims of crimes deal with many confusing and conflicting emotions. Crime is a traumatic experience and the victims often go through long periods of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The symptoms of PTSD are serious and have lasting mental and emotional scars.

The best way to prevent such trauma and heart ache in the society is for everyone to take personal responsibility when it comes to consuming alcohol and seeking immediate help if any signs of excess consumption or uncontrolled drinking behavior are noticed.  

It is well known that many crimes are committed under the direct or indirect influence of alcohol consumption.

Some crimes are connected to a person’s blood-alcohol level while others are related to the impaired state of mind due to the influence of the alcohol. Here are some of the common alcohol related crimes:

Driving Under the Influence

This is one of the most common culprits. Driving after drinking any amount of alcohol is dangerous. Unfortunately, deaths due to drunk driving are so common, in spite of the awareness campaigns.  Driving with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit is grounds for arrest. Though many are arrested for driving under the influence, many more will never be caught.

Theft

There are many reasons why a person with alcohol addiction might resort to stealing. Drinking is an expensive habit that needs a constant source of money. This is the reason why theft is a common alcohol-related crime. Robbery is a felony and carries penalties including potential jail time. The penalties differ depending on the nature of the robbery and the value of the stolen goods.

Domestic Violence

Alcohol related offences by an intimate partner such as a spouse or a partner could include physical attacks as well as sexual assaults, or psychological abuse. Ironically, since drinking often happens with or around an intimate partner, these partners are the ones who face the worst consequences of alcohol related crimes.

Child Abuse

Child abuse includes physical violence, neglect, mistreatment, and verbal or emotional abuse. Though convictions for child abuse have heavy penalties, the innocent victims suffer the most serious trauma.

Sexual Assault

Alcohol plays a role in many sexual assaults. This type of crime can be child abuse or intimate partner violence, or it could be perpetrated on a stranger. Anyone convicted of sexual assault should expect significant legal penalties that continue even after release from prison.

Homicide

Alcohol can amplify emotions, which is why it plays a role in so many homicides. Once a person under the influence of alcohol is in a state of heightened emotions, they lose control and are likely to carry out their actions further than they would normally.  The penalty for homicide can be life in prison or even death.

Exploring alcohol related crimes is important to appreciate the devastating impacts of alcohol on individuals, families and society. Crime is not be the first indication that people connect with problem drinking or addiction, but it is a significant and serious symptom that needs attention.

HOW SUBSTANCE ABUSE INDIVIDUALS TURN OUT TO BE CRIMINALS

A good number of times, people get addicted to one form of addiction or the other, and it is usually due to some factors. Now, the most common form of addiction, is drugs and alcohol addiction. Together, they are commonly referred to as substance abuse or addiction, and they basically mean the obsessive intake of alcohol and drugs.

Most times, taking alcohol and drugs usually start off as a harmless act. Probably as a means to get in the mood or to ease oneself of depression. However, if care is not taken, it transcends into a compulsive and obsessive disorder where the individual cannot do without taking either of the two.

Taking a look at stress for instance, some individuals take these substances in a bid to ease themselves of stress. The mistake they end up making is, they turn this into a regular act, and they get to a stage where they cannot do without it.

When one is intoxicated, there is a tendency for the individual to misbehave. For some set of people, whenever they are in the “high state”, they could act aggressively to people around them, which could result in harming them. While for others, they could be in sober state where they would be unable to interact with other people, thereby straining the bond of relationship between themselves and other people.

When it comes to criminal acts which are perpetrated by some set of individuals, one of the major reasons why they seem so dauntless, is not far-fetched. Most times, before they go for an operation, what they do is, take drugs which would help them look and feel fearless even in the face of real danger.

These drugs aid them by giving the necessary motivation to carry out their wicked act, thereby harming innocent people in the process. One of the best ways of salvaging this, is to ensure that these hard drugs are made limited and out of reach.

Also, those who are addicted to these substances, can be helped by introducing them to addiction rehab centres which would assist them to recover at a good rate.

Substance abuse can result in a great deal of misfortune, as the actions of those who are addicted begin to spiral out of control. However, what many fail to realize is the difficult futures that come through criminal records. For, such a history oftentimes drags itself on the heels of those who struggle with alcohol and drug misuse—presenting a great deal of problems for them. Yet still, there is legal action that can be taken—which can allow one’s content to be erased from his/her public record.

This is where expungement law comes in, as it “deals with the state court procedures for removing criminal records from public view”. For, without such that information is available to a wide range of people, causing the individuals to lose opportunities—such as jobs—that they might not otherwise. The reason behind this is because employers that are looking to hire are able to access that individual’s information, and upon doing so they can decide whether or not they want to hire him/her—based on his/her background history, and other such content.

As a result, it can be difficult for one to secure as many job opportunities as he/she might like—or one job in particular that he/she might have interest in—due to his/her past history. But, expungement takes care of such, so that the individual can gain the ability to start anew—with a clean record. Even so, the process differs from state to state, and there are certain requirements that one must meet—in regards to their offense—in order to qualify.  

In turn, offenses that may seem small to the outside world—DUIs, DWIs, etc.—can cause a great deal of suffering for the individual that is involved. However, if he/she chooses to expunge the charge, then those records can be be “erased” after the expungement has been approved. Upon doing so, it’s up to the individual to submit proof through documentation—and/or the expungement order—to agency databases, so that his/her information may be updated.

In conclusion, if individuals have faced charges—resulting from substance abuse—they have the ability to not only turn their lives around—through recovering from their addiction—but to turn their records around as well. It is through doing so, that they can restore—and/or regain—their opportunities—whether it be oriented around career, transportation, organization, family agencies, and so on. As a result, the most beneficial course of action that one can take is looking into the process of expungement in regards to his/her state.

Those who are caught using drugs, dealing drugs, or both can face grave legal consequences after further assessment. However, what many do not realize is what action is taken to determine the severity of one’s addiction. It is through such that various individuals—addicts or not—can begin to understand DSM (and/or a specific medical criteria for substance abuse and addiction). According to such, “you have a substance use disorder if your substance use is causing significant problems in your life, like health issues or disability that are related to your substance use and/or not meeting your responsibilities at work, home, or school”.

As a result, what this criteria includes is listed as follows; “hazardous use, social or interpersonal problems related to use, neglected major roles to use, withdrawal, tolerance, used large amounts/longer, repeated attempts to control use or quit, much time spent using, physical or psychological problems related to use, activities give up to use, and craving.” It is through these categories that a diagnosis—of one individual, or many—can be made.

When one begins to meet a majority of these it can begin to not only take a toll on his/her personal life, but his/her good standing within society as well. It is then that the need for the substance can overpower one’s morals—and/or even values. As a result, they might find themselves saying that it will only happen that one time, or finding other ways to justify that what is taking place is okay. In doing so, the willingness to do whatever it takes to get the substance—whether it be drugs, alcohol, or both—can begin to overpower their better judgement.  

In conclusion, several drug related arrests take place on a daily basis all because of the addiction that one is faced with—whether it be through alcohol, tobacco, opioids, hallucinogens, etc. For, they may have been under the influence of one or more substances at the time of the crime—or they may have taken part in criminal activity so that they could obtain a particular stimulant.

However, this is something that is oftentimes overlooked because many solely see the crime itself, instead of the reason behind such. But, as the individual receives the treatment he/she needs—to aid in his/her recovery—what he/she is struggling with can be handled right at its source. Through such, addicts can begin to find treatment before the legal consequences—of criminal offenses—even take place, resulting in a healthy, and jail-free life from then on out.

Substance abuse can cause a wide array of issues—that go way deeper than DUIs—and can affect students who are struggling with addiction, no matter their age or gender. As a result of such this can bring about a number of problems, but two of the most crucial for those still in school are listed as follows; 1. Loss of employment, and 2. Loss of Financial aid for college.

First and foremost is loss of employment which can create a great deal of stress for those—with a DUI—whose income is based solely off of their jobs. In turn, this can cause a significant amount of anxiety for students who have a series of bills to pay for—on top of school—such as; rent, car insurance, etc.

Not only that, but it can also cause problems later on down the road—depending on what the particular individual wants to pursue career wise. For example, if someone wants to do something related to transportation (truck driving, etc.) this can pose as a problem because employers will look at crucial information—such as criminal records—via background check. Upon doing so it might cause them to think twice about hiring that individual in particular.

Another example where this is oftentimes seen is if one is pursuing teaching—and/or child education. For, it is through such that he/she will find himself/herself around children of various ages, but a DUI or DWI can jeopardize that because employers might not feel fully comfortable—and/or fully trust that person enough—with that kind of responsibility.

Second is the loss of one’s financial aid. Financial aid, more commonly known as FAFSA, is briefly defined as “any grant or scholarship, loan, or paid employment offered to help a student meet his/her college expenses”. In turn, even though FAFSA doesn’t ask questions in regards to alcohol related misdemeanors/felonies one’s drug conviction(s) can cause a great deal of problem if there were drugs in the vehicle at the time that he/she was pulled over. Then, if his/her FAFSA is suspended this can put a breach his/her school plans—by postponing his/her education.

In conclusion, the legal consequences of DUIs/DWIs can greatly affect students—and cause an unnecessary amount of stress, as they try and attend school. Therefore, it is important that they get help for the substance abuse that they are struggling with early on so that they can not only benefit their present, but their future as well.