How messages from dispensaries, growers, doctors, and online sources shape people's cannabis use
A Multi-Method Investigation of Cannabis Messaging: Characterizing Source, Content, and Associations with Cannabis Consumption
['FUNDING_R01'] · BROWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11312634
This project looks at the kinds of messages people hear about cannabis from sellers, growers, health providers, and online sources and how those messages relate to why and how people use cannabis.
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-11312634 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be asked about the messages you hear about cannabis and how those messages affect your reasons for using it and your use patterns. The research team will conduct interviews with cannabis users, dispensary staff (budtenders), growers, and health care providers who talk with patients about cannabis. They will also collect and code cannabis-related messages from websites, social media, and retail settings to characterize sources, content, and any risk warnings. Finally, the team will link the types of messages people receive to their reported motives for use and subsequent cannabis consumption.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who currently use cannabis (for medical or recreational reasons), especially those who buy from dispensaries or discuss cannabis with health providers, are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who do not use cannabis, are under 18, or who do not interact with cannabis information sources may not receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help people make safer, more informed choices about cannabis by clarifying which messages encourage use or downplay risks.
How similar studies have performed: Other health communication research shows that message source and content influence behavior, but applying mixed methods specifically to cannabis messaging is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES
- BROWN UNIVERSITY — PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: METRIK, JANE — BROWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: METRIK, JANE
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.