Understanding recreational ecstasy use in the United States: A qualitative inquiry
Received 1 May 2007; received in revised form 5 October 2007; accepted 22 October 2007. published online 10 December 2007.
Abstract
Background
Ecstasy use has increasingly become popular among young adults, many of whom view it as a safe drug with no or limited negative social and health consequences. In this paper, we explore the perceptions of ecstasy users about its recreational use as well as regarding the normalisation of use.
Methods
The study participants were recruited using targeted and theoretical sampling. To be eligible, they had to be between 18 and 25 years and have used ecstasy at least four times within the past 90 days. In-depth interviews were conducted with 112 individuals. Data analysis included the constant comparison method commonly used in modified grounded theory.
Results
The study participants associated their recreational ecstasy use with control, shaping both the timing and setting of their use. In addition, they supported that easy access/availability and social accommodations of use contributed to their acceptance of ecstasy use as a normal part of life. Moreover, low risk perceptions of the social and health consequences of ecstasy used were identified as resulting in normalisation.
Conclusion
The study findings reveal the importance of considering recreational ecstasy use from the perspective of the users themselves for prevention efforts and when providing social and health services, including intervention strategies. In addition, the potential normalisation of ecstasy use must be considered.
aEmory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, 1518 Clifton Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
bGeorgia State University, Department of Sociology, Atlanta, GA, USA
ABSTRACT