Examining the effects of cannabis legalization on substance use among teens and parents in Washington State.

Cannabis Legalization a Decade Later: A Longitudinal Study of Teens, Young Adults, and Parents in Washington State

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11077830

This study looks at how the legalization of recreational cannabis in Washington State has affected how teens, young adults, and their parents use cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine over the past ten years, helping us understand these changes better to support healthier choices for families.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077830 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the legalization of recreational cannabis in Washington State has influenced cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine use among teens, young adults, and their parents over a decade. It aims to track changes in substance use patterns and the psychosocial impacts of these changes. By analyzing data from families involved in a long-term study, the research seeks to provide insights that can inform public health policies and promote responsible substance use. The study is grounded in developmental theories and utilizes a longitudinal approach to capture trends over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include families with adolescents and young adults living in Washington State who have been affected by cannabis legalization.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in Washington State or who are not part of families with adolescents or young adults may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into the public health implications of cannabis legalization, potentially guiding future policies and educational efforts.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on substance use trends following cannabis legalization has shown promising results, indicating that this approach is grounded in established methodologies.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.