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The Relationship Between Psychedelic Use and Positive Adult Development in Emerging Adulthood: An Integrative Review
Jake Payne1, Oliver Robinson2, Kevin St Arnaud3
1Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Brain and Behavior
|November 14, 2025
Summary
Classic psychedelics may enhance emerging adults
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Science
Background:
- Classic psychedelics show potential for lasting positive effects on mood, cognition, and personality.
- Limited research exists on how these effects vary across the lifespan, particularly during emerging adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a framework for understanding how classic psychedelic use may positively interact with emerging adult development.
- To generate hypotheses about the developmental significance of psychedelic experiences in this age group.
Main Methods:
- Integrative review of existing literature.
- Development of a theoretical framework linking psychedelic effects to developmental trajectories.
Main Results:
- Classic psychedelics may facilitate positive developmental trajectories in emerging adults.
- Potential mechanisms include increased openness, altered belief systems, enhanced self-insight, and greater social concern.
Conclusions:
- Psychedelic use during emerging adulthood may uniquely support developmental processes.
- Further research is needed to explore these potential benefits and associated challenges.
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