From Policy to Perception: Do Public Views on UK Drug Policy Shape Attitudes Toward Psychedelics?
Katie Dickson, Daniel Stubbings, Megan Hurst, Joseph L. Davies
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs September 11, 2025 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2025.2558579 via OpenAlex
Summary
Public attitudes toward drug policy significantly influenced views on psychedelics in the UK. Specifically, seeing drug use as a health issue predicted support for legalization and reduced perceived risks associated with psychedelics. The study surveyed 250 participants aged 18 to 86, finding that women and religious individuals viewed psychedelics as more harmful, while left-leaning and non-religious participants were more supportive of their therapeutic use. Prior experience with drugs also increased openness to psychedelics.
Study at a glance
| Design | cross-sectional survey |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 250 |
| Population | participants aged 18–86 in the UK |
| Key finding | Viewing drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal issue was a significant predictor of support for psychedelic legalization and lower perceived risk. |
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have gained attention for their therapeutic potential, yet they remain illegal in the UK. This study aimed to explore whether public attitudes toward UK drug policy predicted attitudes toward psychedelics, in terms of their legal status, the effects of psychedelics on individuals and society, the risks associated with psychedelic use, and personal openness toward psychedelic experiences and their potential positive effects. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 250 participants aged 18–86 (M = 38.1, SD = 15.8), using the APQ and sociodemographic measures. Multiple regression analyses revealed that viewing drug use as a health issue, rather than a criminal issue, was a significant predictor of support for psychedelic legalization and lower perceived risk. Additionally, gender, religious affiliation, political leaning, and prior drug use significantly influenced attitudes toward psychedelics. Women and religious individuals tended to view psychedelics as more harmful, while left-leaning and non-religious participants were more supportive of their therapeutic use. Participants with prior drug use experience were more open to psychedelics. These findings suggest that public attitudes may be influenced by broader drug policy perceptions and that shifts in policy framing toward health-based approaches could foster greater support for psychedelic reform. Further research should explore these associations longitudinally.