On The Ground: Methodological and Ethical Considerations of a Field Study on Alcohol Intoxication and Sexual Misperception Among Drinking Venue Patrons.

OBJECTIVE: Decades of research have been dedicated to the study and prevention of sexual aggression perpetration. Despite robust evidence linking acute intoxication and sexual aggression perpetration, few studies have examined this association in naturalistic contexts like drinking settings. Field studies are needed to inform etiological models and interventions that generalize to the naturalistic environment. The goal of this study is to guide researchers on the logistical and ethical considerations involved in conducting an alcohol field study by detailing the methodology used in a field study on alcohol and sexual misperception.

METHOD: This article presents a field study protocol for measuring sexual misperception, a precursor to sexual aggression, in patrons exiting bars. One hundred forty-three participants completed the study procedures.

RESULTS: In-depth information on procedures for site selection, recruitment, screening, measure selection, consent, and capacity assessment is provided. Ethical considerations, barriers to the implementation of field studies, and possible solutions are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS: Field studies can evaluate proximal causes of alcohol-involved sexual aggression and intermediary processes like sexual misperception in naturalistic settings. Greater implementation of field studies is required for a comprehensive understanding of alcohol-involved sexual aggression perpetration and generalizable interventions.