Alcohol and Sexuality
 

Studies have highlighted the association of alcohol use by young people with sexual activity.

Some of the findings from these studies include:

• The Youth 2007 survey found that 14 percent of the 61 percent of students who were currently drinking alcohol reported having had unsafe sex and 7 percent had unwanted sex as a result of their alcohol consumption.

• Young people reported the benefits of alcohol focus on social aspects of drinking and the “buzz” from consumption. In comparison, adults feel that the relaxation gained from alcohol consumption was of more benefit.

• A study of youth from nine European cities found that almost 29 percent of those who consumed alcohol, did so to facilitate sexual encounters.

• A strong correlation between youth, alcohol and sexual behaviour is apparent with many young people believing that alcohol and drugs have a positive effect on sex.

• Males and females both report using alcohol to increase their confidence and ease social interaction with a potential sexual partner.

• Young people who use alcohol at an early age have sex earlier and are more than twice as likely to have unprotected sex if they are under the influence of alcohol.

• Early intervention and making underage purchase of alcohol extremely difficult should be the focus to reduce the health and social risks associated with alcohol consumption and youth.

• Campaigns targeted at reducing alcohol consumption need to be realistic and responsive to the realities of young people’s lifestyles.