The Research Deficit and Expert Disagreement Regarding Music Selection for Psychedelic Assisted Therapy

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Music is recognized as a crucial element in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT).
• Existing empirical research directly investigating music's role in PAT is scarce, with only three studies published to date.
• Current understanding and guidelines for music selection in PAT have not significantly evolved since the 1970s.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze existing empirical studies on music selection for PAT.
• To identify limitations in current research and highlight discrepancies with existing recommendations.
• To summarize the known impacts of music in PAT and propose future research priorities.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and critical analysis of published empirical studies on music in PAT.
• Comparison of findings from selected studies with broader literature and established recommendations.
• Synthesis of current knowledge regarding music's effects and guidelines in PAT.

Main Results:

• The three existing empirical studies on music for PAT have significant limitations.
• Findings from these studies lack alignment with other publications and current recommendations.
• There is a notable deficit in empirical evidence and updated guidelines for music selection in PAT.

Conclusions:

• Further rigorous research is essential to establish evidence-based guidelines for music selection in PAT.
• Addressing the limitations of current studies is crucial for advancing the therapeutic application of music in PAT.
• Updated recommendations are needed to optimize the use of music in psychedelic-assisted therapy.