NCJ Number
200774
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 32 Issue: 2 Dated: Srping 2002 Pages: 431-458
Date Published
2002
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the various reasons for the current use of LSD in Germany.
Abstract
LSD has been the subject of extensive research since its discovery in 1943 by Albert Hofmann. The article presents an extensive review of earlier studies focusing on the sociological, psychological, and physical effects of using LSD. A qualitative project was designed to collect current data related to the socio-cultural contexts of using LSD in Germany. Interviews with 12 female and 14 male LSD users aged from 19- to 53-years-old were subjected to content analysis in order to assess patterns of LSD usage. The author found that LSD usage in Germany occurred independently of the usage of “party drugs,” although some German LSD users did come from various subcultures and/or embrace alternative lifestyles. Furthermore, many LSD users interviewed cited the drug’s intellectual relevance and use in personality development as chief reasons for this drug’s use. Individual’s desires to explore themselves and the world through the use of LSD was a frequently cited reason for using this drug recreationally. The complex interrelationship between pharmacological and extra-pharmacological factors involved in using LSD make it difficult to recognize and clearly specify drug effects generated by the use of LSD in Germany. References