Influence of impulsivity and the search for sensations in the early consumption of cannabis. Gender differences and guidelines for prevention

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Adolescence is a critical phase of development due to the vulnerability to the consumption of toxic substances. Impulsivity and sensation seeking are personality traits that traditionally appear associated with the early consumption of cannabis in adolescents. This study focuses on the analysis of the differences in impulsivity (functional and dysfunctional) and in sensation seeking (thrill and adventure-seeking, disinhibition, experience seeking, and boredom susceptibility) by gender, age and cannabis use. The sample consisted of 634 adolescents from public and private schools of Burgos (Spain). The Dickman’s Impulsivity Inventory, the Sensations Seeking Scale and a question about cannabis consumption were applied. The characteristics of the sample were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the differences in impulsivity and sensation seeking by gender, age, cannabis consumption and its interaction with the MANOVA test. In general, males are more functional impulsive and more thrills and adventures and experiences seekers than female. Participants aged 14 and 15 score higher in thrill and adventure-seeking, and less in experiences seeking. 22.5% of adolescents consumed cannabis. They scored higher in thrill and adventure-seeking, in experience seeking, and in disinhibition than non-consumers. There is an increase in dysfunctional impulsivity and boredom susceptibility associated with consumption in women. Therefore, preventive programs should take into account the gender and certain personality traits of adolescents to increase their effectiveness.