Analysis of Biographical Events Among Different User Groups of Amphetamine Type Substances in Germany: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Amphetamine type stimulants (ATS; such as amphetamine, methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy) and Ritalin) are the second most used substances in Europe. Despite there are only a limited number of studies on how different consumption patterns of ATS are developed. To investigate the ATS use trajectories in 6 different consumption groups the European ATTUNE study has been conducted. Based on 60 qualitative interviews, realised in Germany, the biographical background before the ATS onset and related life events are explored in the life course perspective. Methods The conditions for the development before onset are analysed in comparison of the groups of current consuming and current abstinent ATS dependent, frequent, occasional and non-ATS user. The interview was concomitant with a life course chart in order to record all important life events. The mean number of positive, neutral and negative life events in the life course was calculated for the groups and gender and analysed with non-parametric tests. Results ATS dependent users faced, compared to all other groups, significantly more burden before onset due to negative life events such as parental alcohol addiction and domestic violence. Women were considerably more burdened than men. Stable conditions for development through parental care, friends and education showed predominately those with frequent and occasional ATS use. In these groups dominated positive life events in the entire life course. Early and ongoing burden portray a high risk factor for the development of a problematic ATS use while positive life events imply a protective effect. Conclusions Since dependent and non-dependent ATS users differ in their support needs, preventive measures must be tailored to the respective consumption pattern, including nightlife prevention offered by peers for ATS consumption in a party setting as well as specific counselling and treatment services for those with a dependent and or problematic consumption. In view of the high burden women are exposed to through negative life events, there is a need for offers tailored to women.