How life changes and everyday choices shape cannabis use in young adults
Using behavioral economic domains to characterize cannabis use trajectories among young adults: A prospective mixed-methods investigation
['FUNDING_R01'] · BROWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11317109
Following 18–25-year-olds over time to learn how life events and decision-making relate to patterns of cannabis use.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BROWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11317109 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be followed prospectively as a young adult with regular surveys and interviews that track life events, access to cannabis, cravings, and choices about use. The research uses a behavioral economics framework to link small, everyday transitions (like starting college or a new job) to increases or decreases in use. The team combines quantitative measures and in-depth qualitative interviews to capture both patterns and personal experiences. Study findings aim to map who escalates to heavier use and who reduces or stops.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are 18–25-year-olds who currently use cannabis or are experimenting with it.
Not a fit: This is not a treatment trial, so people seeking immediate help to stop using cannabis or those under 18 or over 25 are unlikely to get direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify key moments and decision patterns to help prevent hazardous cannabis use among young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Behavioral economic approaches have predicted substance use risk before, but applying them to short-term life transitions in young adults is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES
- BROWN UNIVERSITY — PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ASTON, ELIZABETH — BROWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: ASTON, ELIZABETH
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.