Pathways Courses - It Won't Happen to Me:

It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women for Anyone Concerned About The Issues

Module 5: Alcohol and Violence - Page 9 of 10

Alcohol abuse and domestic violence share several characteristics. For example, both can be passed from one generation to another.
The cycle of violence within a relationship tends to follow patterns. First is the honeymoon phase (early in the relationship), then the tension-building phase (as the relationship develops), then the serious battering phase, and then the honeymoon phase again (where the abuser apologizes for abuse and becomes loving again). Alcohol can contribute to tension and battering.
Alcohol abuse and domestic violence affect children of all ages. Even teenagers and young adults may have lasting emotional and psychological scars from living with alcohol abuse and violence.
Dating relationships can also be violent. The violence follows similar patterns as violent adult relationships. Alcohol can contribute to the violence. For example, many young men think alcohol makes it easier to get sex.