Societal perspectives on psychedelics use in clinical context: Development of Concerns and Openness towards Psychedelic Scale (COPS).

Abstract

Introduction: Psychedelics are gaining recognition for their therapeutic potential in mental health treatment, yet societal attitudes remain divided, influenced by both skepticism and curiosity. This study aimed to develop and validate a scale assessing attitudes toward psychedelics.

Methods: Study 1 (n = 1000, convenience sample) explored the factor structure, identifying two dimensions: Openness toward Psychedelics and Concerns toward Psychedelics. Study 2 (n = 843, representative Polish sample) confirmed the scale's validity.

Results: The Concerns factor negatively correlated with meaning in life, while the Openness factor was positively associated with openness to experience, agreeableness, conscientiousness, mindfulness, meaning in life, and nature-relatedness. These associations suggest that individuals with greater openness and psychological flexibility may hold more favorable views on psychedelics.

Discussion: The Concerns and Openness towards Psychedelics Scale (COPS) is a psychometrically sound tool for assessing attitudes toward psychedelics. Its meaningful correlations with established psychological constructs underscore its utility in research and public health. By providing insight into societal perceptions, COPS may help inform discussions on psychedelic therapy, policy, and education, ultimately fostering a more nuanced understanding of their potential benefits and risks.