Cannabis Use in Early Adolescence
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the Psychosocial Drivers of Cannabis Use in Early Adolescents (≤15 years): A Reflexive Thematic Analysis
IRAS ID
365406
Contact name
Will Lawn
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 5 days
Research summary
Cannabis is the most widely used substance among young people, and more than 1 in 5 15‑year‑olds in England report having used it. Early adolescence is a period of rapid emotional, social and brain development and these changes can influence how young people think about and respond to cannabis. Earlier and more frequent use has been linked with a greater risk of dependence, cannabis use disorder, difficulties with mood and anxiety, poorer cognitive functioning and challenges at school and in relationships.
Most existing studies are quantitative and focus on young people aged 16 and over, meaning we know much less about how younger adolescents understand their cannabis use, what influences their decisions to start or continue, and how they experience it in the context of school, friendships, family life and wellbeing. This study aims to explore the experiences of young people aged 13–15 who use cannabis regularly now (at least once a week) or have used it regularly in the past year. Understanding these experiences is important for families, schools, health services and the wider public, as it can help shape support, prevention and education for this age group.
This is a qualitative interview study; no drugs or treatments are being given. Young people will take part in one interview lasting around 45 minutes, which can take place online, by phone or in person at King’s College London. Participants will be recruited through NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
The study will run until March 2027. The research is funded by the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Programme at King’s College London, and is jointly sponsored by King’s College London and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NW/0090
Date of REC Opinion
23 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion