Why cannabis users turn to psychedelics—and how they use them

Despite increased naturalistic psychedelic use in the United States, limited studies explore factors currently contributing to use among ethnically and racially diverse psychedelic and cannabis-using adults. This study employs thematic analysis using qualitative data to explore the factors contributing to contemporary psychedelic use. Qualitative interviews (conducted in 2022-2023) from a subsample of cannabis-using emerging adults who endorsed psychedelic use (N = 33) within a longitudinal mixed methods study were analyzed. Descriptive data were also collected via survey. Transcripts were analyzed, and thematic analysis was implemented using a multiphase coding process until consensus was reached to explore the myriad factors influencing psychedelic use among people who use cannabis within previous motivational models of substance use. Four domains that dynamically influence psychedelic practices were identified: (a) context, such as norms, attitudes, and stigma; (b) expectancies, including perceived benefits and risks; (c) motives for use, including self and/or spiritual exploration, social connection, and self-treatment; and (d) practices, including microdosing, goal setting/intentional use, and experimentation. The current analysis identified factors influencing psychedelic use among U.S. adults who use cannabis in our current society and considered these findings within the context of historical models of substance use, including psychedelic use and motivational models. This study reflects a crucial step in furthering our knowledge around the growing zeitgeist of psychedelic use, including the role of motives, expectancies, and context. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).