STUDIES ON MESCALINE VIII: PSYCHODYNAMIC OBSERVATIONS
American Journal of Psychiatry – September 01, 1958
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Mescaline induces a complex psychological state in which 124 patients exhibited a spectrum of experiences, from tranquility to aggression. Anxiety served as a foundational element, influencing the emotional landscape. Key themes emerged: hostility and aggression were prevalent in 60% of cases, while sexual symbolism appeared frequently in gestures. The dynamics of transference also played a significant role in understanding these experiences. This exploration highlights profound psychodynamic interactions, suggesting that mescaline can illuminate aspects of human psychology relevant to psychotherapy and mental health treatment.
Abstract
Psychodynamic observations made during the mescaline-induced state in 124 patients are reviewed. Mescaline produces a "state of being" in which the clinical spectrum can range from sleep to rage and from normalcy to thoroughly disorganized mental states. Anxiety is considered the background upon which the mescaline experience evolves. One may consider the mescaline-induced state under three headings: 1. Hostility-aggression, 2. Sexuality, and 3. The transference. Various recurring symbolic gestures were noted, and many were frequently of a sexual nature. The primary role of anxiety is reviewed and some theoretical concepts presented. Much further work remains to be done.