From controversy to curiosity: A qualitative exploration of societal perceptions of psychedelics
Kerem Kemal Soylemez, Emma Marie de Boo, Coral Yaron Shoklander, Oliver Lawrence, Joanne Lusher
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews March 7, 2025 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2025.25.3.0720 via OpenAlex
Summary
Participants acknowledged the potential benefits of psychedelics for mental health treatment but expressed apprehensions about their use in controlled settings. The study involved eight individuals with no prior contact with psychedelics, revealing that age and culture significantly influence perceptions. Four themes emerged from interviews: Imbalance within Control Dynamics, Therapeutic Efficacy, Across Generations and Borders, and Growing Awareness, indicating a complex interplay of beliefs surrounding psychedelic use.
Study at a glance
| Design | qualitative study |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 8 |
| Population | individuals with no contact with psychedelics |
| Key finding | Participants recognized potential benefits of psychedelics in mental health treatment while expressing concerns about their application in safe settings. |
Abstract
The present study explored perceptions towards the use of psychedelics. Existing literature suggests that psychedelics can be an effective alternative in the treatment of mental health conditions. However, negative perceptions are commonly expressed in online communities about the use of psychedelics in the mental health context. This controversy in perceptions and societal beliefs surrounding psychedelic use was empirically explored through the collection of in-depth, qualitative data gathered from individuals who had no contact with psychedelics. Eight participants were recruited using snowball and convenience sampling methods and were interviewed online regarding their perceptions and beliefs on this topic. Four distinct themes emerged from a thematic analysis of the dataset: Imbalance within Control Dynamics, Therapeutic Efficacy, Across Generations and Borders, and Growing Awareness. Participants’ narratives suggest that age and culture are important factors influencing individuals’ perceptions towards the use of psychedelics. While the potential benefits of using psychedelics in mental health treatment is acknowledged, participants’ accounts highlight their apprehensions regarding the application of psychedelics in controlled and safe settings. The present findings improve our understanding of perceptions and beliefs surrounding the use of psychedelics and influence a positive shift in societal beliefs and perceptions.