Ego-Dissolution and Psychedelics: Validation of the Ego-Dissolution Inventory (EDI)
Matthew M. Nour, Lisa Evans, David Nutt, Robin Carhart‐Harris
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience June 14, 2016 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00269
Summary
Ego dissolution, a profound psychological state, is intimately linked to the psychedelic experience. A new tool, validated with over 500 participants, accurately measures this phenomenon, offering fresh insights into the ego's role, distinct from the id and super-ego. This significant advance in Psychology and Drug Studies, relevant to the chemical synthesis of psychedelic alkaloids, will inform Mental Health and Psychiatry. It promises to deepen understanding of psychosis and enhance psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Abstract
Our results demonstrate the psychometric structure, internal consistency and construct validity of the EDI. Moreover, we demonstrate the close relationship between ego-dissolution and the psychedelic experience. The EDI will facilitate the study of the neuronal correlates of ego-dissolution, which is relevant for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and our understanding of psychosis.