Abstract
As global evidence for the therapeutic potential of psychedelics grows, discussions around policy reform and their integration into mainstream medicine are becoming more prominent. Given the historical stigma and misinformation surrounding psychedelics, it is essential that these debates are informed by a contemporary understanding of public attitudes and real-world use. This study aimed to explore public perceptions of psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand, focusing on both the perceived benefits and adverse effects among experienced users, as well as the influence of drug-related stigma on psychedelic experiences and attitudes. An online survey of 628 participants examined differences between psychedelic-experienced and naïve individuals across domains including stigma (enacted, anticipated, and internalised), motivations for use, subjective effects, and support for psychedelic policy reform. Comparative and regression analyses were employed to enable a nuanced investigation of these factors. The findings suggest that attitudes toward psychedelics in Aotearoa are generally favourable. Most experienced and naïve participants believed psychedelics have therapeutic effects, should be legalised for justified medical use, and should be reclassified to a lower drug schedule. Internalised drug stigma strongly influenced attitudes, particularly among naïve participants, and was also a significant predictor of adverse psychedelic experiences. While therapeutic intent predicted therapeutic effects, most experienced participants reported such benefits regardless of intent. Long-term adverse effects were rare; however, adverse effects linked to specific use occasions were more common, particularly among participants with mental health conditions. This thesis offers novel insights into attitudes toward psychedelics and their real-world effects within Aotearoa, providing an evidence base to inform harm-reduction and educational initiatives, while also highlighting key factors that may support or hinder future policy change.