Citation

Aston ER, Merrill JE, McCarthy DM, Metrik J. J. Stud. Alcohol Drugs 2016; 77(2): 309-316.

Affiliation

Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc., Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

26997189

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Use of marijuana before or while driving significantly contributes to driving impairment and elevated risk of motor vehicle accidents; however, this risk behavior is common among users. Little is known about the etiology of driving while under the influence of marijuana.

METHOD: Guided by social learning theory, this study examined marijuana outcome expectancies and other driving-related cognitions as predictors of the frequency of driving after smoking marijuana (DASM) and smoking marijuana while driving (SMWD). A community sample of 151 (64% male) non-treatment-seeking frequent marijuana users completed questionnaires on variables of interest.

RESULTS: Perceived driving-related peer norms (i.e., perception that fewer friends disapprove of DASM and SMWD and of riding with a driver under the influence of marijuana) were associated with lower frequency of both DASM and SMWD. Perceived dangerousness of DASM was also associated with decreased frequency of DASM.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest a range of potentially important targets for interventions intended to reduce the likelihood and frequency of driving while under the influence of marijuana.


Keywords: Cannabis impaired driving

Language: en