Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA): Scale Development and Substance-Specific Comparisons
OpenAlex – March 02, 2026
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ego-dissolution, a therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, was effectively captured using the Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA) with 207 participants. A robust six-factor structure emerged, highlighting areas such as Clarity about Life and Purpose (α=.78) and Pleasure (α=.78). Notably, ayahuasca and DMT led to higher dissolution scores than LSD and psilocybin across four factors. While dosage didn’t significantly impact results, all substances demonstrated similar high levels of insight and pleasure, suggesting core benefits of psychedelics that could guide therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Rationale: Ego-dissolution represents a key therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet current measurement approaches may inadequately capture its multidimensional nature.Objective: To develop and validate the Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA) and examine substance-specific patterns across classical psychedelics.Methods: Items from three validated scales (Ego-Dissolution Inventory, Mystical Experience Questionnaire, 5D-Altered States of Consciousness) were compiled into a 34-item measure. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on responses from 207 participants reporting profound experiences with ayahuasca (n=51), DMT (n=28), LSD (n=52), or psilocybin (n=76).Results: Factor analysis revealed a robust 6-factor structure: Dissolving of Identity (α=.94), Experiences of Eternity (α=.89), Dissolving of Physical Body (α=.80), Dissolving into Environment (α=.85), Clarity about Life and Purpose (α=.78), and Pleasure (α=.78). Two distinct substance clusters emerged: ayahuasca/DMT produced significantly higher dissolution scores than LSD/psilocybin across four factors, while all substances showed equivalent high scores on insight and pleasure dimensions. Dosage showed no significant effects.Conclusion: The MEDA provides preliminary evidence for multidimensional ego-dissolution assessment. Substance-specific clustering patterns might inform therapeutic selection, while universal insight and pleasure effects suggest core psychedelic benefits achievable across substances.