Alcohol Consumption-Related Antigay Aggression: Theoretical Considerations for Individual- and Societal-Level Interventions

Abstract

A substantial literature has identified risk factors for intoxicated aggression and the mechanisms by which these effects are exerted. This theoretical and empirical foundation is a valuable resource for the development of treatment inventions. In contrast, a comparable literature is not available to guide development of clinical interventions for intoxicated antigay aggression. To address this gap in the literature, the present article (1) identifies risk factors and mechanisms pertinent to alcohol consumption-related antigay aggression, (2) advances predictions regarding how alcohol will increase antigay aggression, and (3) reviews societal- and individual-level considerations for intervention based upon these hypotheses.

Keywords:

• alcohol intoxication
• aggressive behavior
• violence
• antigay aggression
• bias-motivated aggression
• treatment

Notes

¹The reader is reminded to consider that the concept risk factors is often noted in the literature without adequately delineating its dimensions (linear, nonlinear), its “demands,” the critical necessary conditions (endogenously as well as exogenously; from a micro to a macro level) which are necessary for it to operate (begin, continue, become anchored and integrate, change as de facto realities change, cease, etc.) or not to and whether its underpinnings are theory-driven, empirically based, individual and/or systemic stakeholder-bound, based upon “principles of faith” or what. This is necessary to clarify if the term is not to remain as yet another shibboleth in a field of many stereotypes. Editor's note.

²It is unclear whether individual and situational factors for nonbiased alcohol-related aggression (e.g., dispositional aggressivity and provocation) also facilitate alcohol consumption-related antigay aggression. While these determinants will not be reviewed here, it is assumed that they also increase risk for antigay aggression, perhaps in conjunction with other factors reviewed thus far (e.g., sexual prejudice).