Flashbacks: Recurrent Intrusive Images After the Use of LSD
Mardi J. Horowitz
American Journal of Psychiatry October 1, 1969 DOI: 10.1176/ajp.126.4.565 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | psychotherapy |
| Topics | Psilocybin LSD |
| Keywords | Mental image Focus optics Hallucinogen Cognitive psychology Psychotherapist Psychoanalysis Cognition |
| Citations | 125 |
| Key points | Argues that psychotherapy, especially focusing on the traumatic and screening aspects of the imagery, is helpful for flashbacks. |
Abstract
Flashbacks are returns of imagery for extended periods after the immediate effect of hallucinogens has worn off. The most symptomatic form is recurrent intrusions of the same frightening image into awareness, without volitional control. The author compares flashbacks with other clinical phenomena; he believes that psychotherapy is helpful, especially if there is a focus on the traumatic and screening aspects of the imagery.
Comparable studies
Other theoretical and historical papers on LSD, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Experimental Use of Psychedelic (LSD) Psychotherapy | 1970 | Historical analysis | |
| LSD: My Problem Child | 1981 | Historical analysis | |
| On the Use and Abuse of LSD | 1968 | Theoretical or philosophical paper | |
| The Use of Music in Psychedelic (LSD) Psychotherapy | 1972 | Theoretical or philosophical paper | |
| Untoward Reactions to Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) Resulting in Hospitalization | 1965 | Historical analysis |