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Abstract

Violence in bars has been attributed to a variety of factors including the bar environment, the demographic and personality characteristics of bar patrons and alcohol use. Studies have shown that the bar environment, including layout, noise, crowding, poor ventilation, and socially permissive atmosphere are associated with aggressive behavior1–3. Research also suggests that demographic characteristics, particularly being a young man, are related to behaving aggressively. For example, Pernanen4 reported that bar violence was more prevalent among men than women, with 24% of men who reported aggression indicating that their most recent victimization occurred in a bar. Other research has shown that men who go to bars frequently are more likely to witness violence, experience violence, and engage in violence against non-family members5. Personality characteristics such as hostility and sensation seeking have been separately linked to alcohol use and aggressive behavior6,7 and may contribute to bar violence. Alcohol use, particularly heavy drinking, also may play a role in bar violence4.

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© 2001 Springer Science+Business Media New York

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Collins, R.L., Quigley, B.M., Leonard, K.E. (2001). Prediction of bar violence among young adults. In: Martinez, M. (eds) Prevention and Control of Aggression and the Impact on its Victims. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4757-6238-9_33

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4757-6238-9_33

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4419-3366-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4757-6238-9

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