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Factors associated with variability and stability of cannabis use in young adulthood

journal contribution
posted on 2013-12-01, 00:00 authored by E Silins, Delyse HutchinsonDelyse Hutchinson, W Swift, T Slade, B Toson, B Rodgers
BACKGROUND: This study investigated the factors associated with initiating cannabis use, reverting to cannabis use and remaining a cannabis user in young adulthood. This is an important area of research as the risk for cannabis initiation is extending beyond adolescence and opportunities to influence cannabis use pathways can emerge throughout the life-course. METHODS: A large, community-based sample was followed prospectively. Data from two successive waves (mean age 23 years and 27 years respectively) of the Path Through Life Study (PATH) were analysed (n=2045). The longitudinal design enabled change in cannabis use in young adulthood to be predicted based on factors assessed approximately four years prior. RESULTS: An environment of licit drug use was strongly associated with initiating cannabis use (tobacco: OR=4.98, 95%CI: 2.31-10.76) and reverting to cannabis use in young adulthood (alcohol: OR=2.13, 95%CI: 1.42-3.19). Greater fun seeking was found to orientate people towards initiating cannabis use in young adulthood (OR=1.17, 95%CI: 1.04-1.30). Higher psychoticism increased the odds of remaining a cannabis user (OR=1.19, 95%CI: 1.07-1.33). Religious involvement was protective of cannabis initiation (OR=0.89, 95%CI: 0.83-0.95). Early childhood factors did not influence the pattern of cannabis use in young adulthood. CONCLUSIONS: The findings make an important contribution to the development of prevention and intervention strategies for young adults by drawing attention to specific areas of risk and protection.

History

Journal

Drug and alcohol dependence

Volume

133

Pagination

452-458

Location

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

ISSN

0376-8716

eISSN

1879-0046

Language

eng

Publication classification

C Journal article, C1.1 Refereed article in a scholarly journal

Copyright notice

2013, Elsevier Ireland

Issue

2

Publisher

Elsevier