The “Third” Eye: Ethics of Video Recording in the Context of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7202/1108000ar

Keywords:

psychedelic therapy, bioethics of technology, video recording, MDMA, philosophy of psychiatry

Language(s):

English

Abstract

In light of high-profile cases of sexual assault and other unethical conduct by therapists, recent clinical research involving psychedelic drugs has generally mandated the video recording of therapy sessions. In this paper, I address a gap in the literature by investigating ethical issues related to video recording in the unique context of psychedelic therapy sessions. I begin by summarizing the important benefits and risks related to video recording. I then examine ethical concerns about mandatory recording of psychedelic therapy sessions from a patient perspective and argue that these concerns must be taken seriously by clinicians and researchers. I also examine the view that video recording is essential for clinician safety. Given the legitimacy of concerns from both perspectives, I outline some basic informed consent considerations that could generate dialogue around potential patient concerns and defend the option to opt-out for both patients and clinicians. In conclusion, I underscore the importance of further critical bioethical inquiry and qualitative research regarding video recording practices in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapies.

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Published

2023-12-04

How to Cite

[1]
Rajwani K. The “Third” Eye: Ethics of Video Recording in the Context of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. Can. J. Bioeth 2023;6:8-15. https://doi.org/10.7202/1108000ar.