Community variation in adolescent cannabis use in Australia and the Netherlands

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2018

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): B. Rowland, H. Jonkman, J. Williams, P. Kremer, J.W. Toumbourou

Abstract

Background

While controversial, cannabis use is common, often beginning in adolescence. In Australia and the Netherlands, cannabis use is understood and legislated within a harm-minimisation framework. In Australia it is illegal to purchase or consume cannabis. Cannabis use in the Netherlands is illegal, except in licensed coffee shops where the sale and consumption of small amounts (5 g) are permitted.

Methods

Secondary school aged children in Victoria, Australia and the Netherlands were surveyed using the same culturally adapted questionnaire, designed to measure community rates of substance use and risk factors. Youth cannabis use and predictors of use were compared between the two countries.

Results

Similar levels of cannabis use in the last month were reported in Australia and the Netherlands (4.5%), with slightly lower use amongst girls, compared to boys. Common predictors of use were found in both the Australian and Netherlands sample.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that interventions that effectively target similar risk factors to reduce or prevent cannabis use may have applications cross-nationally.

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