Reward sensitivity and outcome expectancies as predictors of ecstasy use in young adults

Extending recent studies showing that sensitivity to reward and outcome expectancies are associated with problematic alcohol and cannabis use, we undertook to determine if similar relationships would hold for ecstasy. One hundred and twenty five males and females aged between 18 and 35 years were recruited from RMIT University and through snowball sampling. Participants completed a questionnaire package measuring frequency, amount and first age of ecstasy use, sensitivity to reward and punishment as well as outcome expectancies relating to ecstasy use. Frequency of ecstasy use was significantly related to reward sensitivity (p < .05) and positive outcome expectancies (p < .01). Regression analysis revealed significant prediction of ecstasy use by study variables, with expectations of increased confidence making the largest individual contribution. Multiple intervention points are suggested by the results of this study, within a largely cognitive-based framework.

► Examined reward sensitivity and outcome expectancies as predictors of ecstasy use.
► Frequency of use predicted reward sensitivity and positive outcome expectancies.
► Expected increased confidence predicted use frequency and age of first use.
► Multiple clinical interventional points are indicted.