Recreation and Realization: Reported Motivations of Use Among Persons Who Consume Psychedelics in Non-Clinical Settings
July 26, 2021 Cindy Brooks Dollar 8 citations
Most psychedelic use happens in social, not clinical, settings, yet research focuses on clinical applications. Interviews with 30 people who used psychedelics outside clinical contexts reveal multiple motivations for use. While some users cite ego reduction and existential awareness—aligning with the clinical narrative—most report curiosity and fun as primary reasons. The findings challenge the prevailing view of psychedelics as a clinical panacea and highlight the importance of understanding non-clinical use.