A resurgence of psychedelic drug use is occurring as groups of young people discover the effects of altered associations, perceptual distortion, and heightened emotional states caused by LSD, MDMA, and other hallucinogens. These drugs are widely available, inexpensive, and socially reinforced by various societies of adolescents and young adults. The "rave" phenomenon has been a major element in the resurgence of psychedelic drug use in Western society. Originating in Europe in the 1980's, raves are parties open to a select public for a fee in a unique location chosen for the night of the event. Major attractions of the rave scene include the unpredictable location and the integral role psychedelic drugs play in the event. Participants both bring and buy drugs while listening and dancing to "technomusic" played by disc jockeys. "Grateful Dead" concerts are another assembly where psychedelic drugs are taken by large numbers of people in a ritualistic fashion. Since they began playing in the late 1960's in San Francisco, the ethos of this musical group has been intimately connected to the use of psychedelic drugs, particularly LSD. Development of rewarding alternatives, including a sense of belonging in "straight" society, is a critical aspect in treating youth involved in these drug-dominated cultures. 6 references