Associations between Cannabis Use Characteristics, Impulsivity, and Mindfulness

Abstract

Impulsivity has been implicated as a factor in cannabis use and cannabis-related problems. However, impulsivity is a multi-faceted construct. Recent work in substance use has used the UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Questionnaire (UPPS-P), which is designed to assess five facets of impulsivity. Research examining these facets of impulsivity and cannabis use characteristics is somewhat inconsistent, but generally has suggested that Sensation Seeking and Lack of Premeditation may be related to cannabis use and Negative Urgency may be associated with cannabis-related problems. In addition, a substantial literature exists suggesting that mindfulness, the ability to focus one’s attention on the present moment in a non-judgmental, non-reactive, and tolerant manner, is decreased in substance users. However, the literature specific to mindfulness and cannabis use characteristics is relatively inconsistent. Thus, the aim of the current study was to replicate and extend prior research on the associations between impulsivity, mindfulness, and cannabis use. A community sample of adults (N = 289, 137 female) completed an online survey that included the Short UPPS-P (SUPPS-P) impulsiveness questionnaire, Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and questions about cannabis use and cannabis-related problems. A logistic regression in the full sample revealed that SUPPS-P Lack of Premeditation and MAAS total scores, as well as alcohol consumption, were significant positive predictors of cannabis user status (i.e., use in the past 30 days). The Lack of Premeditation finding is consistent with prior studies, but the association between increased mindfulness and cannabis user status was unexpected. It’s possible that the mind set and physical setting in which cannabis is used has influence on the subjective experience, and thus, users may be seeking effects relevant for an overall sense of well-being similar to that seen in research on psychedelic drug use. In the subsample of cannabis users that reported use in the past 30 days (n = 87), no significant associations were revealed between impulsivity facets or mindfulness and cannabis use frequency. No impulsivity or mindfulness variables emerged as significant predictors of cannabis-related problems in users; although, consistent with prior studies, the association with SUPPS-P Negative Urgency approached significance. Alcohol-related problems were associated with cannabis-related problems as well. These findings extend the previous literature and have implications in identifying risk for problematic/disordered use as well as improving upon interventions and treatment approaches for problematic cannabis use.