Salient Beliefs Associated with Unsanctioned Adult Cannabis Use in an Evolving Socio-Political Environment.

Background: The changing cannabis legal climate in the United States has been associated with increased prevalence of use, more favorable general attitudes, and cultural norms toward its use among young adults. The purpose of this study was to conceptualize salient beliefs governing illicit cannabis use within a state where medical use is legal and adult use remains illegal. Methods: Following an initial qualitative pilot, a prospective study (baseline and a 30-day follow-up) that utilized an electronic survey design was conducted. Students at a large US university (N = 514) completed a baseline assessment of cannabis use and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) constructs, and 169 completed the follow-up assessing actual behavior. Results: Roughly 60% reported illicit cannabis use. Attitude and subjective norms accounted for 57% of the variation in intention for cannabis use in the next 30 days, while intention and perceived behavioral control (PBC) explained 51% of the variation in prospective use. The majority of salient beliefs identified exhibited moderate to strong correlations with intention and behavior among the larger sample. Close friends and partners were identified as important referents, outcome expectations of relaxation, improved social functioning, and more enjoyment, as well as environmental factors, such as proximity to use, safe utilization location, and continued illegality of adult use exhibited strong associations to intention and behavior. Conclusions: The practical utility of the salient belief measures identified herein presents a useful foundation for interventions aimed at reducing illicit cannabis utilization among young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]