Alcohol affects survivors and perpetrators in a variety of ways that may enhance the probability of a sexual assault occurring. Alcohol use by women makes them more vulnerable to sexual assault. While men, when drinking, are also at increased risk of being sexually victimized, they are also more likely to engage in coercive sexual behaviors - including sexual assault. One in twelve college males admit to having committed acts that meet the legal definition of rape. Female college freshmen are at the highest risk for sexual assault between the first day of school and Thanksgiving break.
Alcohol impairs the inhibitions, judgment and decision making of both men and women.
Mixing alcohol and sex increases the risk of being sexually assaulted, getting a sexually transmitted disease, or of simply being in an embarrassing and awkward situation in the morning. One in five college students abandon safe sex practices when they're drunk, even if they always protect themselves when sober. Alcohol is sometimes used as an excuse for unacceptable behavior. When a man sexually assaults an acquaintance, he is seen as less responsible for his actions if he was drunk. In addition, survivors who were drinking when they were sexually assaulted tend to have more feelings of self blame.