Cannabis, identity, and attitudes: a qualitative study in adolescents who do and do not use cannabis

Abstract

AbstractBackground and objectiveCannabis use during adolescence is common. Cannabis use and identity are thought to influence one another. This study aimed to examine what London-based adolescents (aged 16-17 years) think about cannabis use, its relationships with identity, and its benefits and harms.MethodThree semi-structured focus groups interviews were conducted, two with adolescents who use cannabis (n=3 and n=5) and one with adolescents who do not use cannabis (n=6). Participants also completed a drug-use questionnaire.ResultsThematic analysis (TA) revealed four identities. Two identities emerged from both groups: ‘The person who uses cannabis is chilled’ and ‘The person who uses cannabis is sometimes ostracised’. Two identities emerged from the group of adolescents who used cannabis: ‘The person who uses cannabis is an expert in risky things’ and ‘The person who uses cannabis is not addicted’. Skunk was identified as potentially more harmful than hash, but more powerful and pleasurable.ConclusionThe findings provide insight into how cannabis use shape personal and social identity amongst teenagers in London in the late 2010s. Those who use cannabis described the benefits of cannabis, including socialising and for relaxation, and emphasised they are not addicted. Stigmatising and devaluing attitudes were held by some non-users about adolescents who use cannabis. Stereotypes seem to still exist, despite cannabis normalisation. Implications for research and policy are outlined.