Race as a component of set and setting: How experiences of race can influence psychedelic experiences
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 19, 2019
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Race profoundly shapes individual experiences with psychedelics. A conceptual review argues that psychosocial factors influencing racial differences in mental health create distinct psychological "set" for users. The character of US race relations provides a unique cultural "setting" for racialized individuals in both therapeutic and naturalistic contexts. This influences the framing and interpretation of experiences, impacting harm reduction. This social psychology analysis is crucial for developing clinical protocols for psychotherapists and ensuring cross-cultural mental health support in psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Background and aims Set and setting function both as a concept that guides research and practice with psychedelic drugs and as a meme aimed at reducing harm among psychedelic users. Referring to non-pharmacological factors that shape drug experiences, the concept of set and setting was popularized in the West during the mid-20th century. However, little theoretical development has occurred regarding what falls under the umbrella of set and setting since its conception. Methods By bridging set and setting theory with research from the fields of social psychology and sociology of medicine, this review calls attention to how race can contribute the set and setting for a psychedelic experience. Results I argue that psychosocial factors influencing racial differences in mental health also constitute meaningful differences in set. Furthermore, I suggest that the character of race relations in the United States provides a distinct cultural setting for racialized psychedelic users, both in therapeutic and naturalistic contexts. In turn, racial identification may contribute to the variation in framing and interpretation of psychedelic experiences. Conclusion These considerations have important implications beyond understanding non-pharmacological influences on psychedelic experiences, including developing protocols for clinical applications of psychedelics, educating future practitioners, and meeting the needs of diverse patient populations.