A Lacanian Exploration of Party Drug Use Through Subjects’ Discourses
Selin Okumuş, Didem Saraç, Eylül Ceren Demir
Ayna Klinik Psikoloji Dergisi May 30, 2026 DOI: 10.31682/ayna.1814548 via OpenAlex
Summary
Drug use is rising globally, prompting a need to understand users' subjective experiences. This study uses a Lacanian psychoanalytic framework and theoretical reflexive thematic analysis to explore reasons for party drug use among five men aged 24 to 34. Findings suggest participants struggle with separation in relationships, work or school, and drug use itself, linked to an overwhelming maternal presence and an absent father. They position themselves as exceptions to rules, showing perverse patterns like transgressing limits, and attribute exaggeratedly positive, almost magical qualities to drugs, viewing them as a unique solution to their problems.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 5 |
| Population | Young adult men aged 24-34 who use party drugs |
| Keywords | Reflexivity Phenomenon Thematic analysis Psychoanalytic theory Position finance |
| Key finding | Participants experience difficulties with separation linked to family dynamics, position themselves as exceptions to the Law, and perceive drugs as a magical solution. |
Abstract
Drug use continues to increase throughout the world, making it important to examine the phenomenon from different perspectives by considering the subjective experiences and discourses of drug users. This study explores drug use through a Lacanian psychoanalytic framework using theoretical reflexive thematic analysis. It aims to investigate the underlying reasons for party drug use among young adult men, as well as their relationship with the Law and the Other. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five men between the ages of 24 and 34. The findings suggest that the participants experience persistent difficulties with separation across different areas of their lives, including relationships, work or school environments, and drug use itself. These difficulties appear to be linked to the mother occupying an overwhelming presence, while the father remains relatively absent or overshadowed. In addition, participants tend to position themselves as exceptions to the Law, displaying perverse patterns, such as an urge to transgress limits and go beyond boundaries. Finally, they attribute exaggeratedly positive and almost magical qualities to drugs, perceiving substances as a unique solution to their problems.