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Is ecstasy perceived to be safe? A critical survey
Alex Gamma1, Lisa Jerome, Matthias E Liechti
1Research Department, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Lenggstrasse 31, 8029 Zurich, Switzerland. gamma@bli.unizh.ch
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|January 25, 2005
Summary
Contrary to recent claims, this study found little evidence that recreational drug ecstasy is perceived as safe. Most drug users surveyed recognized ecstasy as carrying significant risks, challenging assumptions about user awareness.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Recent publications suggest a widespread perception of ecstasy (MDMA) safety among users and the general public.
- However, empirical evidence supporting these claims is lacking, with prior studies indicating otherwise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the perceived harmfulness of ecstasy (MDMA) among drug users.
- To challenge the assumption that widespread drug use implies user unawareness of risks.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was conducted with over 900 participants who use drugs.
- Data were analyzed to assess perceptions of ecstasy's risks.
Main Results:
- Seventy-three percent of surveyed drug users perceived ecstasy as carrying at least 'some risk'.
- Findings contradict claims of widespread perceived safety for ecstasy (MDMA).
Conclusions:
- The assumption that drug users are unaware of risks is inadequate for informing harm reduction strategies.
- Future drug information and harm reduction efforts should address affective and personally significant risk perceptions.