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PsychologyPubMed Verified

Psychedelics and the essential importance of context

Carhart-Harris RL, Roseman L, Haijen E, Erritzoe D, Watts R, Branchi I, Kaelen M

Journal of Psychopharmacology (2018)

Theoretical / hypothesis
Abstract

Argues that the psychological effects of psychedelics are critically influenced by extra-pharmacological factors — set (mindset, intention, personality) and setting (physical and social environment). Reviews evidence that psychedelics amplify sensitivity to context, making therapeutic outcomes highly dependent on environmental conditions. Discusses implications for clinical trial design and therapeutic practice, advocating for optimized contexts to maximize therapeutic benefit and minimize adverse reactions.

Citations300
Study TypeTheoretical / hypothesis
set and settingcontextextra-pharmacologicalclinical trialstherapeutic practicesensitivity
DOI: 10.1177/0269881118754710View on PubMed

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