Examining dynamic patterns of problematic cannabis use: Results from a multilevel network analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Addiction Science
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Problematic cannabis use in young adults often goes untreated.
• Existing research on cannabis use relies on retrospective reports, not real-time daily life interactions.
• Alternative assessment and intervention methods, like mobile health apps, are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze ecological momentary assessment data on young adults with problematic cannabis use.
• To model associations between biopsychosocial factors and cannabis use in daily life.
• To identify key triggers and patterns in everyday cannabis consumption.

Main Methods:

• Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data from 65 young adults with problematic cannabis use.
• Multilevel network analyses to examine associations among various factors.
• Cannabis Use Disorders Identification Test-Revised (CUDIT-R) for problem assessment.

Main Results:

• Consistent, clinically meaningful associations were found between socioenvironmental triggers and cannabis cravings, use, and intoxication.
• Statistically significant, but not clinically meaningful, links existed between negative affect and cannabis use, and positive affect and intoxication.
• Coping strategies did not show clinically meaningful associations with cannabis use variables.

Conclusions:

• Socioenvironmental triggers are critical drivers of cannabis use and intoxication in young adults.
• Understanding cannabis use dynamics in everyday life is essential for improving clinical assessments.
• Findings support the development of more precise, dynamic interventions for problematic cannabis use.