The role of modified states of consciousness in druguse

Abstract

Modified state of consciousness (MSC) is defined as a mental state that can besubjectively recognized by an individual or by an objective observer of theindividual, as representing a difference in the psychological functioning of the“normal” state, alert and awake of the individual. Drugs areproducts with definitions and conceptual boundaries, historically defined. Theuse of psychoactive drugs is related to the increased plasticity of humansubjectivity which is reflected in various technical means to change theperception, cognition, affect and mood. The authors propose to conduct aliterature review on the types of MSC, the way to achieve them and theirimplications in drug consumption pattern.

A MSC consists of dimensions such as self-oceanic limitlessness, agonizingself-dissolution and visionary restructuring.

Normal MSC includes dreams, hypnagogic state and sleep. Others may be induced byhypnosis, meditation or psychoactive substances. Those achieved by drugs allowthe subject to access feelings and sensations which go beyond the everydayreality or, on the other hand, leakage of reality.

Anthropological studies show that in almost all civilizations, man sought ways toinduce MSC.

What characterizes the problematic or abusive use of certain substances is notnecessarily the amount and frequency of drug use, but the disharmony in thesocio-cultural, family and psychosocial contexts of the individual.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.