Means of Recreational Cannabis Supply and Distribution Channels: Perceptions of Consumers, Consumers/Sellers, and Law...

Psychotropic drugs and addictive behaviors pose significant public health challenges, with substantial social costs. Despite a general decrease in cannabis use among young people, the proportion of problematic users is increasing. Few studies have explored the perceptions of adults concerning supply methods for cannabis.

To describe perceptions of recreational cannabis procurement and distribution among consumers, consumers/sellers, and law enforcement officers in France, where cannabis use is high despite its illegal status.

Qualitative study using a grounded theory approach according to Strauss and Corbin was conducted. Participants were recruited through various methods. Semi-structured interviews and a focus group were carried out until data saturation.

Forty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with consumers and consumers/sellers, along with three constables. Additionally, a focus group involving six police officers was held. We identified 1200 properties and 105 categories, which were consolidated into six themes: 1-Typologies of Buyers/Consumers and Consumers/Sellers; 2-Belonging to the Same Group: Understanding Group Affiliation; 3-Enthronement and Trustful Relationship: Establishing a Bond of Confidence; 4-Dealing, a Real Business; 5-The Violent Reality of the Drug Dealing World; 6-The Role of Women in the Drug Dealing World and Among Cannabis Consumers.

Trust was a crucial element in the world of drug dealing. Dealing as a family enterprise raised two important notions: 1-the economy of singular goods, where competition based on price was less significant than competition based on quality; 2-the relationship between law enforcement and consumers/sellers, linked to Akerlof's "market for lemons theory," with a primary market (dealing and resale) at known spots targeted by law enforcement and a secondary market involving purchases from intermediaries preferred by consumers. Women were both utilized to achieve ends, such as hiding merchandise, and as victims of discrimination.