Examining Treatment Outcomes: Differences Between Primary and Non-Primary Marijuana-Using Youths Transitioning Into Recovery

ABSTRACT

To date, little is known about psychosocial and behavioral effects of marijuana (MJ) use among youths in substance abuse disorder (SUD) treatment. We recruited 80 youths (M_age = 20.4 ± 3.5 years old) to participate in an aftercare pilot program from SUD treatment programs in Southern California. This article explores differences in psychosocial and behavioral treatment outcomes between youths in SUD treatment for MJ compared to youths in treatment for another primary substance other than MJ (i.e., stimulants, opioids, alcohol). Youths in SUD treatment for MJ reported being less likely to quit, continued MJ use at treatment completion, less substance use severity, less psychosocial distress, and fewer criminal behaviors compared to youths who received treatment for substances other than MJ. There were differences in HIV-risk outcomes in the past year; however, both groups reported risky sexual behavior in the past month at treatment discharge.

KEYWORDS:

• marijuana use disorder
• treatment outcomes
• youth

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the contributions of the research team, including Samantha B. Douglas, Kara Lee, Christina Zavalza, as well as the collaborating treatment program staff.

Funding

This study was supported by grant K01 DA027754 from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).