Gough, Jasmine C. (2024) Experiences of LSD Reported by Autistic Individuals and Its Impact on Autistic Identity: A Reddit Content Analysis. Honours thesis, University of Southern Queensland. (Unpublished)
Abstract
Due to a lack of post-diagnosis support options, many autistic adults are seeking alternative options for support. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of autistic individuals use of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) and the impact it had on self-esteem, empowerment, and autistic identity. The research was grounded in Carl Rogers’ Self-Theory and the Social Model of Disability. The stigmatised nature of both autism and psychedelic use meant obtaining data through the social media website Reddit offered unobtrusive insights into the LSD experiences of autistic adults. Content analysis of 1317 posts and comments indicated that most autistic individuals who have used LSD had positive experiences and impacts on their autistic-related traits. Improvements in self-esteem, a stronger connection to their autistic identity, increased agency, and reduced masking were some of the other reported benefits of LSD use. It is important to note that these findings were not universal, and the complex sensory sensitivities associated with autism made the experience challenging for some, and many struggled integrating their insights. The study’s findings highlight that LSD may have therapeutic potential for increasing self-esteem, and self-acceptance of identity in autistic individuals which could further aid in increasing psychological well-being within this population. However, further research is needed to explore these outcomes comprehensively and to increase knowledge regarding the potential risks of LSD use for autistic individuals and to strengthen harm reduction strategies.
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| Item Type: | Thesis (Non-Research) (Honours) |
|---|---|
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Additional Information: | Current UniSQ staff and students can request access to this thesis. Please email research.repository@unisq.edu.au with a subject line of SEAR thesis request and provide: Name of the thesis requested and Your name and UniSQ email address |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | Current – Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Psychology and Wellbeing (1 Jan 2022 -) |
| Supervisors: | Dr Ireland, Michael ; Dr Abel, Susan |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) |
| Date Deposited: | 21 Jan 2026 06:42 |
| Last Modified: | 21 Jan 2026 06:42 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | autistic identity, LSD, self-concept, social model of disability, content analysis |
| Fields of Research (2008): | 17 Psychology and Cognitive Sciences > 1701 Psychology > 170106 Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology |
| Fields of Research (2020): | 52 PSYCHOLOGY > 5203 Clinical and health psychology > 520304 Health psychology |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/53089 |
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