Perceptions of the medicinal value of hallucinogenic drugs among college students

College students are reluctant to agree that hallucinogenic drugs can be therapeutic for conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, but a majority believe further research into their medicinal benefits is warranted. A survey of 124 students at two U.S. colleges—a small private college in the mid-Atlantic and a medium-sized public university in the Midwest—found similar responses across campuses. Participants were asked about seven afflictions and generally did not endorse hallucinogens as therapeutic, yet supported continued investigation into their potential medical uses.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This survey examined perceptions among college students about the potential medicinal benefits of hallucinogenic drugs. Current research and potential benefits include an ability to help anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction with hallucinogen-assisted psychotherapy. We devised and administered a survey on 124 students at two college campuses, one small private college in the mid-Atlantic and one medium-sized public university in the Midwest of the United States. Responses were similar across campuses, and in general, participants were reluctant to agree that hallucinogens can be therapeutic to the seven afflictions we questioned them about. However, the survey also revealed that a majority of participants believed there should be further research done exploring the medicinal benefits of such drugs. These findings shed light on perceptions of hallucinogens as their use is being applied to a host of afflictions.