Abstract
Undoubtedly, alcohol holds a unique position among addictive substances. Despite its relatively high risk, alcohol is a legal substance and its consumption is socially accepted in most cultural environments.
Research studies and criminological theory show that a correlation between alcohol use and crime exists. In relation to alcohol-related crime, two main categories – primary and secondary alcohol-related crimes – may be considered.
This article is (primarily) concerned with the second group, with a particular focus on the role of alcohol in violent crime. The aim of the article is to highlight the factors that may, in addition to the psychopharmacological effects of alcohol, be relevant for the relationship between alcohol use and violence and for estimates of the extent of alcohol-related crime.