Katelyn Battista , Slim Haddad , Scott T. Leatherdale , Richard Bélanger
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Identifying characteristics of adolescent cannabis use and the surrounding social context that may predict problematic use is important for delivering harm-reduction approaches in both clinical and public health settings. We used a decision tree analysis to identify combinations of various use characteristics (e.g., frequency, mode, duration, initiation age, polysubstance use) and social context risk factors (e.g., peer and household use, solitary use, ease of access) characterizing the highest risk groups for three indicators of problematic use (unsuccessful quit attempt, excessive use, feeling addicted). We analyzed data from 8,915 cannabis ever-users from a large sample of secondary school students (mean age 15.5) in Québec, Canada, who completed the COMPASS survey. Using cannabis at least 2–4 times per month was the most important predictor of problematic use and independently characterized the highest risk groups. Initiating use before age 14 and engaging in solitary use also predicted increased problematic use risk among adolescents whose sustained past-year use did not meet the 2–4 times per month threshold. No sociodemographic differentiation emerged among high-risk groups. When screening for risky cannabis use or promoting safer cannabis behaviours among adolescents, health care providers and public health groups should consider factors with the greatest potential to influence detrimental trajectories among this age group.
期刊介绍:
Addictive Behaviors is an international peer-reviewed journal publishing high quality human research on addictive behaviors and disorders since 1975. The journal accepts submissions of full-length papers and short communications on substance-related addictions such as the abuse of alcohol, drugs and nicotine, and behavioral addictions involving gambling and technology. We primarily publish behavioral and psychosocial research but our articles span the fields of psychology, sociology, psychiatry, epidemiology, social policy, medicine, pharmacology and neuroscience. While theoretical orientations are diverse, the emphasis of the journal is primarily empirical. That is, sound experimental design combined with valid, reliable assessment and evaluation procedures are a requisite for acceptance. However, innovative and empirically oriented case studies that might encourage new lines of inquiry are accepted as well. Studies that clearly contribute to current knowledge of etiology, prevention, social policy or treatment are given priority. Scholarly commentaries on topical issues, systematic reviews, and mini reviews are encouraged. We especially welcome multimedia papers that incorporate video or audio components to better display methodology or findings.
Studies can also be submitted to Addictive Behaviors? companion title, the open access journal Addictive Behaviors Reports, which has a particular interest in ''non-traditional'', innovative and empirically-oriented research such as negative/null data papers, replication studies, case reports on novel treatments, and cross-cultural research.