Hitting heavens high : a study of ecstasy and rave culture

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to explore how ecstasy is related to rave culture, whether rave culture is considered as a form of entertainment or a lifestyle and the consequences that this culture brings about. This study gives importance to; • the rave culture • the significance of ecstasy within the rave culture • tangible repercussions as a result of his/her life style • the social work intervention. The sample consists of 17 participants namely; 7 ex users, 4 users, 3 social workers and 3 DJs. The users and ex users are all attending or benefiting from Caritas's New Hope services. The data is collected through in depth interviews and is analysed using the grounded theory. This data collection indicates that rave culture is a lifestyle whilst ecstasy is an integral part in it. It also gives importance to how social workers intervene when working with individuals who need help due to the negative consequences that this lifestyle carries. Also, this study will highlight how social workers can provide a better service based on the main themes; weekend entertainment, new generation, peer groups, joy, acceptance, party, significance, psychological addiction, heroin and the addiction social implications this culture brings about.