What effect does alcohol and drug use have on consent?

Intoxication from alcohol and drug use plays a significant role in the context of consent by impairing an individual's judgment and clarity in decision-making. When someone is under the influence of substances, their ability to understand, process, and communicate consent can become severely compromised. This impairment can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and an inability to give or receive clear consent. Recognizing that intoxication affects a person's capacity to consent is critical in scenarios involving sexual activity, as it highlights the importance of ensuring that all parties are in a clear and sober state of mind to engage in consensual interactions.

Other options suggest that alcohol would enhance clarity of consent, have no effect on judgment, or that intoxication acts as a valid legal excuse, which misrepresents the critical understanding of consent and the responsibilities associated with intoxication in sexual scenarios.