Chasing the Psychedelic Dragon - Development of Psychological Addiction to Mystical Experiences Induced by Psychedelic Drugs

This study focuses on the contributing factors that could predict the likelihood of developing a psychological addiction to mystical experiences induced by psychedelics. A cross-sectional online survey study (n = 200) was conducted to investigate these effects using a combination of questionnaires and open questions. Contrary to expectations, avoidance was not found to be connected to psychological addiction to mystical experiences. However, sensation-seeking proved to relate to psychological addiction and was correlated with an increased likelihood of using psychedelics in the future. The relationship between absorption and psychological addiction was found to be mediated by the intention to confront difficult emotions. The findings indicate that higher scores on absorption increase the likelihood of using psychedelics with the intention to confront negative emotions. In contrast to expectations, the intention to confront one's emotions was found to increase the likelihood of using...Show moreThis study focuses on the contributing factors that could predict the likelihood of developing a psychological addiction to mystical experiences induced by psychedelics. A cross-sectional online survey study (n = 200) was conducted to investigate these effects using a combination of questionnaires and open questions. Contrary to expectations, avoidance was not found to be connected to psychological addiction to mystical experiences. However, sensation-seeking proved to relate to psychological addiction and was correlated with an increased likelihood of using psychedelics in the future. The relationship between absorption and psychological addiction was found to be mediated by the intention to confront difficult emotions. The findings indicate that higher scores on absorption increase the likelihood of using psychedelics with the intention to confront negative emotions. In contrast to expectations, the intention to confront one's emotions was found to increase the likelihood of using psychedelics in the future, therefore making the person more likely to become psychologically addicted to mystical experiences. Exploratory analysis revealed that the perceived importance of a facilitator in a non-clinical setting and the importance of experiencing ego death were not connected to psychological addiction and the future likelihood of using psychedelics. Five intentions for psychedelic use were found to be connected to an increased likelihood of psychological addiction to mystical experiences. Additionally, alternative explanations for hypotheses and new research are suggested.Show less

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Chasing the Psychedelic Dragon - Development of Psychological Addiction to Mystical Experiences Induced by Psychedelic Drugs