Discuss the possible links between substance abuse and violence.

Violence and substance abuse may be a psychopharmacological relationship or the direct consequence of ingesting mood-altering substances. Experimental evidence shows that high doses of drugs such as PCP and amphetamines produce violent, aggressive behavior. For example, binge drinking has been closely associated with violent crime rates. Heavy drinking reduces cognitive ability, information-processing skills, and the ability to process and react to verbal and nonverbal behavior. As a result, miscommunication becomes more likely and the capacity for rational dialogue is compromised. It is not surprising that males involved in sexual assaults often claim that they were drinking and misunderstood their victims' intentions. Drinking becomes particularly dangerous when abusers have access to firearms. Another explanation suggests that crime is an economic compulsive behavior. Drug users resort to violence to obtain the financial resources to support their habit. Studies conducted in the United States and Europe show that addicts commit hundreds of crimes each year. The third view suggests that violence escalates when drug-dealing gangs flex their muscle to dominate territory and drive out rivals. Studies of gangs that sell drugs show that their violent activities may result in a significant proportion of all urban homicides. Drug dealers/traders also are more likely to carry and use firearms in their daily activities.

Thanks for your help!