New Study Shows that Intimate Partner Violence Increases Around Alcohol Outlets

A new study from the University of Texas School of Public Health has found that where there are higher numbers of alcohol outlets, there’s also higher rates of violence between intimate partners.

The 2008 study measured the violence toward women by men and toward men by women, and then cross-referenced this information by public drinking locations. Higher rates of violence committed by men toward women were found in neighborhoods that had bars, restaurants where alcohol was served, liquor stores or other drinking places. Rates of violence committed by women toward men did not follow the same pattern.

While plenty of anecdotal information may exist, this was the first study to measure the exact correlation of alcohol outlets to intimate partner violence.

“This study shows what anyone in addiction treatment has known for many years: addiction to alcohol or drugs destroys relationships and lives,” said Derry Hallmark, Director of Admissions and Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor at Narconon Arrowhead. Narconon Arrowhead is one of the country’s leading drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, located in Canadian, Oklahoma. “The report points out one of the most important things that family members can do for those they care about who are addicted: get them help immediately. The longer they wait, the greater chance there is for violence, imprisonment, overdose or even death.”

Narconon Arrowhead has been treating people suffering from drug or alcohol addiction for forty years, and has developed a successful technique of providing treatment for addiction without the use of substitute drug therapy. “We have found that if we help a person thoroughly detoxify drug residues stored in the body, cravings decrease greatly or even cease,” added Mr. Hallmark. “The counseling and life skills training in the Narconon program that follow the detoxification help a person rebuild the life and relationships that were destroyed by substance abuse. The result is a productive, enjoyable life for the former addict, which is what families tell us is their most desired result.”