Psychedelics can lead to profound belief changes and insights

  • SOURCE ▸
    PUBLISHED
  • December 9, 2022
  • AUTHORS
  • Sandeep Nayak and Roland Griffiths
  • PUBLICATION
  • Johns Hopkins Medicine
  • TITLE
  • Johns Hopkins Researchers Explore the Concept of Belief Changes Related to Psychedelic Experiences
  • KEY TAKEAWAY
  • Increased belief changes related to nonphysicalist beliefs, consciousness, and purpose were found after a single psychedelic experience, with the magnitude of changes associated with qualitative features of the experience.

A recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins researchers explored belief changes related to psychedelic experiences and found that a single psychedelic experience increased a range of nonphysicalist beliefs, beliefs about consciousness, meaning, and purpose. The study analyzed data from 2,374 participants who had a belief-changing psychedelic experience, with almost half indicating it was their first such experience. Beliefs were divided into five factors, including dualism, paranormal/spirituality, nonmammal consciousness, mammal consciousness, and superstition. Results showed increases in beliefs related to the first four factors, with examples such as increased belief in the mind as a spiritual existence, the universe being conscious, and inanimate objects having conscious experiences. The study also found that higher ratings of mystical experiences were associated with greater changes in beliefs, and that belief changes assessed after the experience remained largely unchanged at the time of the survey. The researchers emphasize the importance of further exploring psychedelic-induced belief changes and their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in relation to mystical experiences and secular spirituality. This study highlights the profound impact that psychedelic experiences can have on individuals' beliefs and underscores the need for continued research in this area to better understand and support individuals engaging in psychedelic use.

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