Zach Walsh: Psychedelic Therapy & Third Wave Behaviorism: Prevention of Interpersonal Violence

Psychedelic therapies are investigated for their potential to reduce interpersonal violence and support prisoner reintegration. Preliminary evidence, including historical data from the Concord Prison Experiment, is contrasted with modern research demonstrating that psychedelic use correlates with lower rates of re-arrest. The mechanism of action is hypothesized to involve improved emotion regulation. Third-wave behavior therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are proposed as tools for integration. These modalities focus on cognitive processes rather than content, providing a framework to help individuals navigate psychedelic experiences effectively for long-term behavioral change.