Objective: This study examines the prevalence of marijuana users among African-American female teenagers, and explores potential differences among this group and non-marijuana users. Methods: Sexually active adolescents (n=522) completed an in-depth survey assessing various behavioral and psychosocial variables. Marijuana use was determined by both laboratory assay and self-reported measures. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for predictors among marijuana users. Results: Two hundred and fourteen (41%) adolescents were classified as marijuana users. Of these, almost half (49.1%) had started using marijuana by age fourteen. Another half (43.9%) had used marijuana at least once within the last 30 days. Psychosocial variables associated with marijuana use included low involvement in organized religion (AOR=.312, P=.024) as well as increased fear of one's boyfriend ignoring (AOR=3.287, P=022) and leaving when pregnancy is discussed (AOR=4.274, P=.005). Discussion: This exploratory study suggests that marijuana use among female African-American teenagers may be more prevalent than is expected. Also, several predictors, including communication skills among partners involving the subject of pregnancy, may be predictive of marijuana use. Further research involving more specific associations between pregnancy and religiosity with marijuana use will need to be explored.
Learning Objectives: Session participants will be able to learn the prevalence of marijuana users among female African-american adolescents, as well as identify potential psychosocial variables that can be targets for intervention work.
Keywords: Marijuana, Adolescents
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.