Age of First Marijuana Use and Its Impact on Education Attainment and Employment Status

Abstract

With the increased prevalence of marijuana use among youth, the increase in state legalization, and changing social norms in the United States, it is important to understand the long-term impact of marijuana use initiation. This study examined whether age of first marijuana use is associated with educational attainment and employment status. Data from 5,988 adults aged 26 to 49 years who participated in the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were used in the current study. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the odds of graduating from high school and being employed. Controlling for demographics, persons with late-early first use had significantly higher odds of graduating from high school and being employed compared with persons with early first use. Results underscore the importance of early prevention for youth aged 15 and younger and have implications for intervention and policy development.