Psychosocial determinants of ecstasy use in young people in the UK

<jats:p><jats:bold>Objectives</jats:bold>. The present research aimed to examine the psychosocial determinants of ecstasy use in young people in the UK.</jats:p><jats:p><jats:bold>Design</jats:bold>. Two studies applied the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to understanding ecstasy use. In Study 1, students completed questionnaires measuring components of the TPB. In Study 2, a random sample of members of a nightclub completed measures of attitudinal ambivalence and components of the TPB in relation to taking ecstasy in the next two months. Reported use of ecstasy was assessed two months later.</jats:p><jats:p><jats:bold>Methods</jats:bold>. Both studies employed self‐completion questionnaires. In Study 1 a single questionnaire was completed by 186 students. In Study 2 a first questionnaire was completed by 203 members of a nightclub and a second questionnaire two months later by 123 respondents.</jats:p><jats:p><jats:bold>Results</jats:bold>. In Study 1, attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control accounted for 50 per cent of the variance in intentions. In Study 2, TPB components explained 63 per cent of the variance in intentions. Intentions and perceived control explained 55 per cent of the variance in subsequent ecstasy use. Attitudinal ambivalence moderated the intention‐behaviour relationship such that the impact of intentions on subsequent behaviour was significantly stronger for individuals with lower levels of ambivalence.</jats:p><jats:p><jats:bold>Conclusions</jats:bold>. The TPB provided a good basis for understanding intentions and actual use of ecstasy in young people in the UK. The different beliefs of users and non‐users may form a useful basis for health education.</jats:p>