Just the Facts

Secondhand Consequences of Drinking

Students who do not drink or do not abuse alcohol experience secondhand consequences from others' excessive use. In addition to physical and sexual assault and damaged property, these consequences include unwanted sexual advances and disrupted sleep and study (Hingson et al., 2002; Wechsler et al., 1995, 2000b). The problems produced by high-risk drinking are neither victimless nor cost-free. All students, whether they misuse alcohol or not, and their parents, faculty, and members of the surrounding community experience the negative consequences wrought by the culture of drinking on U.S. campuses.

Brought to you by the NIAAA, a part of the NIH, a component of the U.S. DHHS.