Vicki Snow’s Oct. 30 column, “Flashers best cure is a hearty chuckle,” trivialized the consequence of irresponsible alcohol use and presented an inaccurate picture of exhibitionism.

Exhibitionism is a criminal offense and most victims are adult females and children. The trauma of being victimized should not be understated.

Victims of exhibitionism are justifiably shocked, frightened, humiliated and angered by the experience.

However, exhibitionism is an act of aggression which rarely proceeds to sexual assault. The perpetrator rarely seeks further contact with the victim and may even fear it.

In contrast, the irresponsible daily use of alcohol destroys lives, ruins relationships and kills.

Everyone on this campus knows someone who has been emotionally, physically or fatally injured by drunken behavior.

Twenty-eight million adults grew up in alcoholic homes. Fifty thousand people die each year from drunk driving.

Exhibitionism is a serious offense with serious emotional consequences. Irresponsible alcohol use, on the other hand, can kill.

Darsha Primich

Substance Abuse Counselor

Kathy Hotelling

Director

NIU Counseling and Student Development Center