This research aims to investigate the relations between the alcoholic beverage use and violent behavior in families of a low income community located in Recife, Pernambuco. Seventy-nine families were interviewed, chosen randomly, distributed in the six micro-areas that compose the community. At first a questionnaire was applied, followed by a semi directed interview. The data obtained through the questionnaire was submitted to the descriptive statistic analysis and the semi directed interviews went through content analysis. No standard family organization was shown to be immune to the alcoholic beverage use and the possibility of violent behavior. The abusive alcoholic beverage use in the weekends associated with strong socio-economic pressures, rigid and punitive educational style, and complex and demanding socio-cultural environment, frequently leads these families to violent behaviors, modulated and sanctioned by these same elements.
family; alcohol; violence
