A Survey of American Psychiatrists’ Attitudes Toward Classic Hallucinogens

This 2018 survey (n=324) explores the perception of American Psychiatrists regarding classic hallucinogens in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The study noted that respondents viewed hallucinogens as “appropriately illegal for recreational purposes” as well as “potentially hazardous”. However, a sizeable minority, including male and trainee and younger psychiatrists, showed a positive response to the therapeutic potential of hallucinogens in psychiatric treatment; this survey opined was due to more exposure to recent positive publications about hallucinogens.

Abstract

“Recent years have seen renewed interest and research about the use of hallucinogens as possible agents in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. However, we are unaware of studies assessing the current attitudes of American psychiatrists regarding hallucinogens. Therefore, we e-mailed surveys to 1000 members of the American Psychiatric Association—250 resident-fellows and 750 attending psychiatrists. The response rate was 32.4%. Respondents tended to perceive hallucinogens as potentially hazardous and appropriately illegal for recreational purposes. However, a large minority expressed optimism about the potential use of hallucinogens for psychiatric treatment. Male and trainee respondents, as compared with female and attending respondents, reported less concern about the risks of hallucinogens and greater optimism about their therapeutic potential. Younger psychiatrists also seemed more optimistic. Optimism among trainees and younger psychiatrists may possibly reflect greater exposure to recent positive publications about hallucinogens and less awareness of more negative past reports.”

Authors: Brian S. Barnett, Willie O. Siu & Harrison G. Pope Jr

Study details

Topics studied
Safety Equity and Ethics

Study characteristics
Survey

Participants
324