Exploring how alcohol and sexual communication affect intimate partner sexual violence in couples

Determining the Proximal and Temporal Effects of Alcohol and Sexual Communication on Intimate Partner Sexual Violence among Sexual Minority and Heterosexual Couples

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-10940511

This study looks at how drinking alcohol and talking about consent can affect the chances of sexual violence between partners, whether they are straight or part of the LGBTQ+ community, to help find better ways to prevent these situations.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10940511 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between alcohol consumption, sexual communication, and intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) among both sexual minority and heterosexual couples. It aims to identify how each partner's alcohol use and their communication about consent and refusal can influence the occurrence of IPSV. By employing rigorous experimental and longitudinal methods, the study seeks to fill critical gaps in understanding the predictors of IPSV, particularly focusing on the dynamics within couples. The findings could lead to a better understanding of the causes of IPSV and inform future prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals in intimate relationships, particularly those who identify as sexual minorities or heterosexuals, who have experienced or are at risk of intimate partner sexual violence.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently in a relationship or who have not experienced intimate partner sexual violence may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and intervention strategies for intimate partner sexual violence, ultimately enhancing the safety and well-being of individuals in relationships.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on intimate partner violence, this study's focus on the interplay of alcohol and sexual communication in both sexual minority and heterosexual couples is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.