Article summary
The research paper discusses the issue of highs and lows of Ecstasy and the role played by its sellers in sharing of information, through social networks. The paper argues that drug users are influenced by three major factors: the users setting, users state of mind, and pharmacological properties. Drug buyers have also designed mechanisms by which they can use the drugs without getting harmed. (Jacinto et al, 2009) A study which was conducted between 2003 and 2006 dubbed ‘An Exploratory study of Ecosystem distribution’ was based on findings from National Institute of drug abuse program. The survey took place in San Francisco Bay Area. It was majorly based on the relationship between the customers and the sellers. The first setting of the study was carried out in the public dance parties, clubs and in private settings while the second round consisted of 120 participants who had sold at least five doses, six months prior to the interview. The proportions were as follows: 91 men, 28 women and 1 transgender. The study further indicated that the participants learned how to use drugs from more experienced users who provided them with anecdotal information that facilitated their knowledge (Zinsser 2006).
Most participants admitted that highs made them euphoric and feel relaxed. Some said that highs enhanced their level of socialisation and bonding with others. Users admitted that drugs improved their pleasurable and therapeutic feelings. According to this paper, another method of achieving highs was application of props or toys in raising tactical and visual stimulation. (Frank, 2009) Sellers also admitted that application of Ecstasy as a suppository produced the best highs especially when one is in a positive mind.
The paper also presents some of the negative impacts associated with the use of Ecstasy. (Jacinto et al, 2009) The major one, according to this paper, is the hangover feeling especially during morning hours. The users adapted a mechanism to counter the negative effects of the drug. One of the ways was through the use of 5-hydroxytryptophan, which is a serotonin precursor. Other methods applied include drinking electrolyte drinks, stretching muscles, preloading and eating well. The research gives room for exploring other methods and strategies to treat hangover. The paper finally appreciated the responsibility assumed by the sellers in providing relevant information to the buyers. The users expected the sellers to avail information concerning where they could get drugs besides joining them in dancing community (Frank, 2009).
Critical Summary
It is a fact as portrayed in the essay that the use of distinctive drug can produce pleasurable and harmful effects. The study was conducted amongst 120 which are enough samples to represent the population. I subscribe to the fact that ecstasy psychopharmacology quality leads to bonding amongst the peers. The author could add that it makes one feel a sense of belonging. But I disagree that most drug users learn a lot from peers. I believe that with the advent of technology, media stations and internet especially social media such as face book and twitter have played a vital role in spreading information on drugs usage. (Scheier 2010) But it is true that sellers provided guidance to the users and explains the pleasures derived from its consumption. On a lighter note, I disagree that the sellers provided the information on the harmful effects. In most scenarios, sellers will major on the information that will make the drugs sell as opposed to majoring on the harmful effects that buyers are likely to face. If they have to, then, it can be done in writing unlike the usage procedure which involves facial expression. I agree with this paper that the provision of inadequate information may be harmful to the buyers as it was not carried out through a credible scientific process. That presents a doubted finding that sellers always act as a very important focal point for giving information to the buyers on the effects of the drugs. Besides this, it is usually a common practice that peers will always influence one another to their direction and therefore chances of one being involved in drugs will be high.
Conclusion
It is true that sellers might disseminate information concerning highs and lows to their customers, but one fundamental question is on the credibility of the information provided, given that it is not scientifically conducted. I think a lot of inclusion ought to have been made in this study. For instance, what is the connection between increasing the derived pleasures and measures to curb negative effects? A lot of findings from this work are very vital in controlling the usage of drugs in the country.
References
Jacinto C.,Duterte M., Sales P.,Murphy S., The Journal on (2009) Maximising the Highs and Minimising the Lows’ int J Drug Policy.2008; 19(5): 393-400.
Frank J., 2009. Ecstasy. Zebra Books. New York.
Scheier, L.,M., 2010. Handbook of drug use etiology: theory, methods, and empirical findings. American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Zinsser W.,K., 2006. On writing well: the classic guide to writing nonfiction. HarperCollins. New York.