Patterns and correlates of cannabis use in young adulthood

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Copyright: Silins, Edmund Aivars
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Abstract
Close investigation of cannabis use in young adulthood is warranted as there is a prolongation of the period of risk of initiation beyond adolescence. Few studies have investigated the factors associated with patterns of cannabis use in young adulthood after the peak age of onset. This is an important period to investigate as risk factors for cannabis use can emerge throughout the life-course and the opportunity to influence adverse developmental pathways can be extended beyond childhood and adolescence. This thesis examined the correlates, predictors and consequences of patterns of cannabis use in young adulthood, using two successive waves of data from 2,404 young adults enrolled in the PATH Through Life Project, an Australian longitudinal survey of the influence of lifestyle and social factors on health. The thesis demonstrates that, although cannabis use tends to decline in young adulthood, a notable proportion of young adults remain involved with the drug. Relapse to cannabis use in young adulthood is not uncommon among former users. Those who first use cannabis in young adulthood generally do not continue or progress to intensive use. A range of factors spanning numerous domains are correlated with cannabis use in young adulthood. A close connection exists between licit drugs and cannabis use. Early cannabis use and the pattern of cannabis use in young adulthood are particularly important predictors of subsequent use of the drug. Regular cannabis use in young adulthood increases the likelihood of later psychosocial and substance use problems including educational underachievement, heavy drinking, tobacco use, cannabis dependence and other illicit drug use. In contrast, ceasing cannabis use in young adulthood has considerable benefits in terms of reducing several potential harms (mental health problems, cannabis dependence, other illicit drug use) and increasing adult role participation. Risk and protective factors associated with variability and stability of cannabis use in young adulthood include gender, first use at an early age, dimensions of personality, religiosity, conflict and hostility in friendships and an environment of licit drug use. The results provide a clearer picture of the patterns of cannabis use in young adulthood and the factors that contribute to explaining them. The findings of this thesis make an important contribution to the development of prevention and intervention strategies for young adults by drawing attention to specific areas of vulnerability and resistance.
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Author(s)
Silins, Edmund Aivars
Supervisor(s)
Hutchinson, Delyse
Swift, Wendy
Slade, Tim
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Publication Year
2011
Resource Type
Thesis
Degree Type
PhD Doctorate
UNSW Faculty
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