Examining the Relationship between Amphetamine-Type Substances and Aggression

Amphetamine-type substances (ATS) have long been reported to increase anger and aggression-related behaviours in the anecdotal literature. This thesis explores whether a causal ATS-aggression relationship exists by examining how acute ATS doses influence mood and performance under controlled laboratory conditions in humans. Through a systematic review of existing acute dosing studies, and experimental trials, the collation of evidence revealed a lack of support for an ATS-aggression causal relationship. Strong statements drawing a direct or causal link between methamphetamine/amphetamine ingestion and aggressive or violent behaviour cause unnecessary concern, contribute to stigma, and should at minimum be tempered while research continues.