Psychedelic experiences and long-term spiritual growth: a systematic review
William A. Schutt, Julie J. Exline, Kathleen C. Pait, Joshua Wilt
Current Psychology July 12, 2024 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-024-06272-2 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Systematic review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 19,724 |
| Population | Participants from 32 independent samples, including international samples |
| Topics | Mysticism Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Religious experience Spirituality Faith Context archaeology Feeling Psychology of religion Social connectedness Religiosity Transcendence philosophy Religious orientation Hallucinogen Theology |
| Citations | 25 |
| Key findings | Psychedelic use is linked with multiple subjective indicators of spiritual growth, and higher mystical experience ratings are positively associated with perceived spiritual growth. |
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic substances, which can occasion mystical experiences, are sometimes used for religious and spiritual reasons. Despite strong links between psychedelics and spirituality, no previous systematic review has investigated connections between psychedelics and indicators of long-term spiritual growth. Thus, 34 empirical studies were analyzed with 19,724 total participants from 32 independent samples. A variety of methodologies were used among the reviewed studies, and some studies included international samples. Results showed that psychedelics—especially classic psychedelics (e.g., psilocybin, LSD, and DMT)—have been studied more often in this context than other substances. Findings indicate that psychedelic use is linked with a variety of subjective indicators of spiritual growth, including stronger perceived connections with the divine, a greater sense of meaning, increased spiritual faith, increased engagement in religious and spiritual practices, an increase in feelings of unity and self-transcendence, positive changes in worldview, increased connectedness with others, and reduced fear of death. Many studies that reported on one of these indicators also reported on others, implying a co-occurrence of these facets during and after psychedelic experiences. Spiritual growth was often related to mystical experiences, with higher mystical experience ratings associating positively with perceived spiritual growth.