The findings suggest that, despite the intense and quick high that attracted crack users, the adverse physical, psychological, and financial consequences did deter and caution them. The data also suggest that crack use is not necessarily compulsive, as over half the respondents reported never or rarely having a craving for the drug and nearly half were not concerned about becoming addicted to crack. Daily crack users comprised only six percent of the sample, and the overall low frequency of use was notable. The major factor affecting the level of use was perceived risk. Crack users did not differ significantly from powder cocaine users in sociodemographic terms. The media portrayal of the crack epidemic may inflate estimates of treatment needs, has targeted drug law enforcement activities on selected segments of the drug-using population, and could dilute preventive efforts directed at crack users. 4 tables, 14 notes, and 29 references (Author abstract modified)