1. Reasons for Cannabis Use and Non-use
The reasons for using cannabis non-medically, as well as the choice not to use cannabis, are complex and can be different for each person.[1]McKiernan, A., & Fleming, K. (2017). Canadian Youth Perceptions on Cannabis, Ottawa, Ont.: Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. According to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, some of the most common reasons for cannabis use, specifically among youth, include:
- It is easy to access
- To overcome routine or boredom
- To fit in with their peers
- To feel good (improve their mood, appetite, and sleep)
- To be more sociable
- To feel excitement or pleasure
- To cope with sadness, anger, and anxiety
- It is available and acceptable
- It helps them gain an alternative perspective of their experiences
Youth report not using cannabis for the following reasons:[2]George, T., & Vaccarino, F. (Eds.). (2015). Substance abuse in Canada: The Effects of Cannabis Use during Adolescence. Ottawa, ON: Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse.[3]McKiernan, A., & Fleming, K. (2017). Canadian Youth Perceptions on Cannabis, Ottawa, Ont.: Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse.
- Fear of legal and parental consequences
- Negative effects on the body and mind
- To avoid social consequences and stigma
- To avoid stereotypes of people who use cannabis
References[+]
| ↑1, ↑3 | McKiernan, A., & Fleming, K. (2017). Canadian Youth Perceptions on Cannabis, Ottawa, Ont.: Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. |
|---|---|
| ↑2 | George, T., & Vaccarino, F. (Eds.). (2015). Substance abuse in Canada: The Effects of Cannabis Use during Adolescence. Ottawa, ON: Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. |