[Patterns of drug abuse among youngsters of upper social class].

Abstract

Street drug use, and alcohol abuse among young adults from a high social class range were studied in the posh seaside resort of Punta del Este (Uruguay) during the (austral) summer vacation (February 1993). In this connection, an anthropological methodology was applied: Four young people were trained in systematic record and observation technics abilities. Results suggest two clearly defined social-cultural patterns with regard to both cannabis, and cocaine use. Both patterns take place within a social environment agreeable to drug use as well as strongly connected with social interaction ways peculiar to high-class youth.