Placebo and set and setting are two huge factors in the psychedelic experience. This review article (2016) explores both aspects.
Abstract of Set and setting, psychedelics and the placebo response
“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.”
Author: Ido Hartogsohn
Summary of Set and setting, psychedelics and the placebo response
Placebo response is a phenomenon in medicine where a patient responds to a fake treatment due to expectation for improvement. Set and setting is a concept that posits that a patient’s response to a drug is dependent on non-pharmacological factors.
Non-pharmacological factors can influence the effects of drugs in many ways, including anxiety, relaxation, fear, cognitive enhancement, retardation, suspiciousness, and intimacy.
Because of their shared concerns, it is worth considering placebo and set and setting theories together, and how they may complement each other, empowering both patients and medical practitioners, and improving overall outcomes.
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https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881116677852
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Cite this paper (APA)
Hartogsohn, I. (2016). Set and setting, psychedelics and the placebo response: an extra-pharmacological perspective on psychopharmacology. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 30(12), 1259-1267.
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Ido HartogsohnIdo Hartogsohn is a writer and assistant professor at the program for Science, Technology and Society at Bar Ilan University. In his work he focuses on the set and setting (context) of a psychedelic experience.