Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs) in Metaphors: a Metaphorical Analysis of User Experiences of Synthetic Cannabinoids in Two Countries

Abstract

New psychoactive substances (NPS) remain a global public health and clinical challenge. Popular NPS include synthetic cannabinoids (SCs). A conceptual metaphorical analysis of user experiences of SCs was conducted in two European countries (Western and Central European). Metaphors are increasingly used to better understand drug user experiences and as medium to inform and guide clinical responses. Semi-structured interviews with 12 SC users were conducted in Hungary (n = 6) and Ireland (n = 6). Thematically segmented texts of SC usage (1) motivation, (2) effects, (3) consequences and (4) the setting were selected. A systematic analysis of conceptual metaphors was conducted on the selected texts. The conceptual target and source domains of the experiences of SC usage (motivation, effects, consequences) were analysed. Four conceptual source domains were found in all of the segmented and analysed narratives of psychological factors (motivations, effects, consequences): change in the vertical perception, perceiving that SC is everywhere, feeling disconnected, recognition of lack of control and identifying the SC as a destroying entity. The conceptual metaphors reflect how users perceive experiences of SC use, the discrepancy between the experience of embodiment and disembodiment. This study provides clinicians with an insight into the experiences of SC motivations, effects and consequences and can be used to inform and guide clinical and therapeutic responses in the support of those recovering from SC dependence.

Consumption of Synthetic Cannabinoids in Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: a Pilot Study

“…Among others, severe hallucinations, psychosis, anxiety, suicidality, self-harm, and physical side effects, such as strokes or heart attacks, have been observed in previous studies (Muller et al 2016). Additionally, SC are known to cause euphoria, anti-nociception, concentration problems, changed perception, and acute memory impairment (Kaló et al 2018;Nurmedov et al 2015). Hospitalizations and deaths related to SC have also been reported (Duffert 2014;Kemp et al 2016;Miliano et al 2016;Nichols 2011).…”