Alcohol, crime and disorder: a study of young adults hors263

This report presents the extent and nature of the relationship between patterns of alcohol consumption and criminal and disorderly behaviour amongst young people. Findings from the 1998/99 Youth Lifestyle Survey (YLS), a nationally representative household survey of young people in England and Wales, are presented alongside findings from in-depth interviews with 27 young people selected from licensed premises in England.

Findings from the YLS cover drinking behaviour, binge drinking, offending and drug use amongst 18-24 year olds. Thirty-nine per cent of young people were classified as binge drinkers, defined here as reporting being very drunk at least once a month. Binge drinking was seen to be significantly associated with drug use and offending, particularly violent offending, even after other factors were taken into account. Binge drinkers were also more likely than drinkers who did not get drunk to be involved in offending during or after drinking. Opinions were also sought as to how young people think alcohol-related offending can be reduced and include harsher penalties for offenders, improved door staff vetting and training, longer opening hours, the use of plastic bottles and glasses and improved transport.