Most active Ecstasy users do not associate the drug with risks of neurotoxicity or psychological problems, beyond the danger of obtaining a deadly substitute. Based on audiotaped focus groups and individual interviews with 30 users in Ohio, users instead seek harm-reduction strategies for safe use and largely ignore prevention messages like "just say no." Because Ecstasy is often used in small friend groups, interventions involving peer leaders or social networks may be effective.
Young people who attend raves and use ecstasy are not a uniform group. Based on focus groups, interviews with 36 current and former ecstasy users aged 19–31 in central Ohio, and participant observation, five main subgroups were identified: Chemi-Kids, Candy Kids, non-affiliated Party Kids, Junglists, and Old School Ravers. These groups differ in musical taste, philosophy, clothing, time in the subculture, and drug use patterns. For instance, ecstasy use is most common among Candy Kids, while Junglists tend to use more ketamine and methamphetamine. Alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and hallucinogens are also widespread. This typology can help design targeted prevention strategies.