A Lacanian Exploration of Party Drug Use Through Subjects’ Discourses
Selin Okumuş, Didem Saraç, Eylül Ceren Demir
Ayna Klinik Psikoloji Dergisi May 30, 2026 DOI: 10.31682/ayna.1814548 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 5 |
| Population | Young adult men aged 24-34 who use party drugs |
| Keywords | Reflexivity Phenomenon Thematic analysis Psychoanalytic theory Position finance Narrative Qualitative research Criminology Work physics Order exchange Gender studies |
| Key findings | Participants experience difficulties with separation linked to family dynamics, position themselves as exceptions to the Law, and perceive drugs as a magical solution. |
Abstract
Drug use continues to increase throughout the world, making it important to examine the phenomenon from different perspectives by considering the subjective experiences and discourses of drug users. This study explores drug use through a Lacanian psychoanalytic framework using theoretical reflexive thematic analysis. It aims to investigate the underlying reasons for party drug use among young adult men, as well as their relationship with the Law and the Other. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five men between the ages of 24 and 34. The findings suggest that the participants experience persistent difficulties with separation across different areas of their lives, including relationships, work or school environments, and drug use itself. These difficulties appear to be linked to the mother occupying an overwhelming presence, while the father remains relatively absent or overshadowed. In addition, participants tend to position themselves as exceptions to the Law, displaying perverse patterns, such as an urge to transgress limits and go beyond boundaries. Finally, they attribute exaggeratedly positive and almost magical qualities to drugs, perceiving substances as a unique solution to their problems.