Using Novel Behavioral Economic Measures to Characterize Dual Marijuana and Tobacco Use in Young Adults

Summary

The multi session experimental study aims to determine dual use patterns of marijuana and tobacco by assessing the impact of price and availability of marijuana and tobacco using a cross price elasticity of demand task. The study will recruit 120 non-treatment seeking emerging young adults (18-25 years) who smoke marijuana and tobacco.

Detailed Description

Young adulthood is a crucial time to study substance use disorders which increase cancer risk later in life. It is especially important to understand marijuana and tobacco use as most young adults often use both. Although dual use is related with increased long-term health and behavioral risks, underlying behavioral mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to address this gap by using rigorous laboratory-based behavioral economic measure including a novel cross-price elasticity of demand (CPED) task and an innovative extension of cue-induced demand to assess cross-cue reactivity to better understand co- use. The results will help lead cessation efforts in this population and reduce cancer risk across the lifespan. Participants (N = 120) will be young adults (age 18-25) endorsing current tobacco and marijuana use and will complete 4 experimental in-person sessions. Following a phone-screen to assess preliminary eligibility, participants will come to the study center for in-person baseline screening. This screening consists of a urine toxicology screen, a breathalyzer test, and self-report questionnaires. The remaining three sessions will be completed in person which mainly consist of cross-cue reactivity sessions, self-report measures, and a qualitative exit interview following the final session.

Eligibility Criteria

Interventions