A Lacanian Exploration of Party Drug Use Through Subjects’ Discourses
Ayna Klinik Psikoloji Dergisi May 30, 2026 Selin Okumuş, Didem Saraç, Eylül Ceren Demir
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.