Consumo recreativo de MDMA: un estudio sobre jóvenes en España
Diego Fernández Piedra, A. López, Enrique Gallego-Granero, Claudio Vidal Giné, Jordi Navarro-López
Escritos de Psicología / Psychological Writings June 29, 2026 DOI: 10.24310/escpsi.19.1.2026.21454 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Mixed-methods design Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1,412 |
| Population | Young people in Spain (mean age 26.3 years) |
| Topics | MDMA |
| Keywords | Consumption sociology Psychosocial Focus group Recreational use Alcohol consumption Risk perception Recreational drug use Survey data collection Environmental health |
| Key points | MDMA is predominantly used in recreational contexts with high past-year prevalence (80.6%), yet only 27.5% adhere to recommended dosing intervals, and use often involves combining with alcohol and cannabis. |
Abstract
Introduction: MDMA use among young people in Spain is shaped by psychosocial factors that guide consumption patterns, motivations, and risk-reduction strategies.
Objective: To investigate consumption patterns, risk perception, and consumption management (strategies and practices aimed at regulating use) in recreational contexts among young people in Spain.
Method: A mixed-methods design was employed, including a survey of 1412 young people (59.1% male, 37.5% female, 3.5% other; mean age = 26.3 years), 28 semi-structured interviews, and 6 focus groups conducted in various cities.
Results: MDMA was predominantly consumed in recreational contexts, with a prevalence of 80.6% among survey respondents over the past year. Although many individuals implement self-care strategies, only 27.5% adhered to the recommended interval between doses, and consumption frequently occurred in combination with alcohol and cannabis. Furthermore, information validation occurs within peer networks, influencing both risk perception and patterns of use. Discussion and
Conclusions: Integrating scientific evidence with user experience is essential for designing effective risk-reduction strategies that are tailored to consumption dynamics and social reference frameworks.