Study identifies four groups of young cannabis users in Norway.
Researchers in Norway categorize young cannabis users into four groups, with one group raising concerns due to mental health struggles.
Why it matters
- Highlights diversity in cannabis use among youth.
- Shows the importance of understanding usage patterns for better support.
By the numbers
- Study followed over 100 Norwegian adolescents from ages 12-13 to 18-19.
- Data from 290 interviews conducted between 2015 and 2021.
The big picture
- Cannabis use varies among youth: curiosity, social belonging, subculture, or coping mechanism.
- One group uses cannabis frequently and faces mental health challenges.
What they're saying
- Some comments are sarcastic about the findings being obvious.
- Others point out potential links between heavy use and mental health issues like psychosis.
- Debate on causality: mental health issues leading to cannabis use or vice versa.
Caveats
- Study based on self-reported data from interviews.
- Sample size is relatively small (over 100 participants).
What’s next
- Research aims to inform a more nuanced debate on youth and drug use.
- Potential for better support and intervention strategies.