The Use of Spice -  A Question of Russian Roulette

Abstract: The aim of this thesis was to get a deeper understanding for the experience of individuals using Spice. More specifically the study aimed to investigate how do these individuals reason and argue concerning their Spice use, how they describe social relationships and environment when using Spice and psychosocial experiences concerning their Spice use. Semi-structured interviews were held with six informants between 20-30 years of age. The theoretical framework for analysis was ecological system theory and labeling theory. The results showed that the use of Spice predominately was associated with negative physical and psychosocial side effect as well as with impaired well-being overall. The informants reported that Spice affected their social life negatively due to a declined connection to their family. Several withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, shaking, vomiting, sweating as well as cognitive difficulties such as memory loss, trouble remembering and stuttering were reported. The results also showed that even today when the informants have quit using Spice some still experience difficulties such as troubles following in conversations, lack of self-confidence and anxiety concerning their physical and mental state.