Set and setting, psychedelics and the placebo response: An extra-pharmacological perspective on psychopharmacology

Placebo response theory and set and setting theory both explore how non-biological factors—such as expectancy, preparation, and beliefs—influence responses to therapy, but they differ in scope and purpose. Set and setting theory applies only to psychoactive drugs and is prescriptive, guiding users and therapists to optimize drug effects. Placebo theory applies to all therapeutic interventions and is descriptive, explaining how placebo effects occur. This paper examines how the two theories can complement each other, broadening understanding of how non-biological factors shape responses to drugs and other treatments.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Placebo response theory and set and setting theory are two fields which examine how non-biological factors shape the response to therapy. Both consider factors such as expectancy, preparation and beliefs to be crucial for understanding the extra-pharmacological processes which shape the response to drugs. Yet there are also fundamental differences between the two theories. Set and setting concerns itself with response to psychoactive drugs only; placebo theory relates to all therapeutic interventions. Placebo theory is aimed at medical professionals; set and setting theory is aimed at professionals and drug users alike. Placebo theory is primarily descriptive, describing how placebo acts; set and setting theory is primarily prescriptive, educating therapists and users on how to control and optimize the effects of drugs. This paper examines how placebo theory and set and setting theory can complement and benefit each other, broadening our understanding of how non-biological factors shape response to drugs and other treatment interventions.