Why might punitive measures to regulate student alcohol use fail to enhance sexual safety?

The reason punitive measures to regulate student alcohol use might fail to enhance sexual safety is primarily linked to the way such measures can lead to more dangerous drinking environments. This can occur because when regulations are overly harsh, students may resort to unsupervised or secretive drinking situations to avoid detection. These environments often lack safety protocols, support, and accountability, which can increase the risk of sexual violence and other dangerous behaviors.

In these situations, the social dynamics may also shift negatively. For example, with students choosing to drink in hidden or off-campus settings to evade punishment, they may find themselves in riskier situations where they are less likely to receive help or support in case of an incident.

Moreover, students may engage in more excessive drinking as a form of rebellion against strict regulations, thereby further compromising safety. This cycle demonstrates that punitive measures, rather than providing protection or safety, can unintentionally exacerbate the risks associated with alcohol consumption and sexual safety.