Two Patterns of Cannabis Use Among Adolescents: Results of a 10-Year Prospective Study Using a Growth Mixture Model

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground: The present study aimed to distinguish cannabis consumption patterns among adolescents and to relate these to life satisfaction, academic achievement, and the use of other psychoactive substances. Methods: This study used a prospective design. Cannabis use was measured 14 times over the course of 10 years. Participants were 318 adolescents aged 14 to 15 at the beginning of the study. Results: Growth mixture modeling identified 2 latent classes. Class 1 was defined by phases of high-frequency cannabis use, and Class 2 was defined by low-frequency use or nonuse. Class 1 reported decreased satisfaction with life and one's own academic and professional achievement at the age of 24 as well as higher use of tobacco and illicit substances. Conclusions: High-frequency use of cannabis predicts a decreased satisfaction with life and one's own academic and professional achievement as well as an increased use of other substances.