Background: While psychedelic research has surged globally due to the potential therapeutic applications, little is known about the motivations, subjective effects, and outcomes of use within Aotearoa New Zealand where these substances remain strictly prohibited.

Aims: The current research sought to uncover the multifaceted nature of positive and challenging psychedelic experiences, exploring which type of experience yields a more significant long-term impact. Furthermore, the study aimed to investigate the motivations underlying psychedelic drug use and how these motivations evolve. Finally, it aimed to explore the associations between specific psychedelic motivations and the resulting experiences and outcomes.

Method: Utilising a qualitative and quantitative approach, an online survey involving 997 participants was carried out, in addition to semi-structured interviews with 36 people in Ōtepoti, Aotearoa New Zealand.

Results: Quantitative analysis showed that the worst psychedelic experiences differed markedly from the best experiences in emotional, cognitive, and relational dimensions, while typical experiences closely resembled the positive qualities seen in participants' best experiences. Motivations changed after the first experience, as well as between best, worst, and typical experiences, depending on the consequences. Overall, the consequences of psychedelic use were mostly positive among participants with the best experiences leaving the most lasting beneficial impact. Subsequently, in-depth interviews further elucidated these concepts. Six key themes emerged, reflecting a diverse range of perspectives: (1) Embracing Psychedelic Curiosity; (2) The Social Experience; (3) Feeling Overwhelmed and Concerned, “A Negative Feedback Loop”; (4) Psychedelics as Catalysts for Personal Growth; (5) Psychedelics Enhancing Connection & Appreciation; (6) Psychedelic Experiences Promote Change in Preparation and Consumption Behaviour. 

Conclusion: This thesis provides information about the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of psychedelic drug users within Aotearoa, providing valuable insights for clinical research and policy discussion. The study reveals multifaceted motivations for psychedelic use, with mental expansion and therapeutic purposes associated with more positive outcomes. Notably, the best and typical experiences shared similarities, while the worst experiences differed in cognitive, emotional, and relational aspects. Overall, these experiences tended to lead to positive outcomes, with the best experiences having the most beneficial impact. Given the potential for personal growth and healing, these nuanced findings highlight the need for an open-minded approach to drug education and policy aimed at minimising harm and potentially maximizing the benefits of psychedelics.