Alcohol not only fuels dangerous drunk driving but also sexual antics, embarrassing text messages, and other inappropriate behaviors at workplace and family holiday parties, warns a new study.

The Caron Treatment Centers commissioned Harris Interactive to survey 1,973 adults ages 21 and over throughout the U.S. about the impact of alcohol at holiday parties. Researchers found that 64 percent of those who attend holiday parties sponsored by employers said the events sometimes included embarrassing alcohol-driven episodes.

Inappropriate behavior witnessed by respondents included coworkers driving while they were intoxicated (58 percent), flirting with other coworkers or supervisors (49 percent), use of excessive profanity (47 percent), and disclosure of inappropriate personal information about themselves or other coworkers (44 percent).

Similarly, bad behavior observed by family members at holiday parties included an intoxicated family member starting an argument (57 percent), excessive use of profanity (44 percent), and overt aggression (35 percent). Overall, 56 percent of those attending family holiday parties reported witnessing a family member under the influence of alcohol behaving inappropriately.

"Dangerous and inappropriate behavior can certainly lead to injury or even death in the case of drunk driving, for example, but it can also lead to a damaged reputation, termination from a job, destruction of relationships, health problems and much more," Harris Stratyner, regional vice president for Philadelphia, Pa.-based Caron.

The survey found that 34 percent of respondents felt it was acceptable to have three or more drinks at a work party, and 45 percent said it was acceptable to do so at a family party. Stratyner said that such acceptance of heavy social alcohol use may help mask serious drinking problems. "During the holidays, people are particularly vulnerable to drinking in excess and others are willing to look the other way to keep the atmosphere festive," he said.

With almost 70 percent of U.S. adults planning to attend holiday parties this year, Caron has put together a guide to responsible holiday drinking.