Factors that influence cannabis vaping habits of college students: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT

Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the attitudes and perceptions of college undergraduates regarding cannabis vaping. Participants: Twenty-one, predominantly male (71.4%; Mage = 22, SD = 2.09), undergraduate college students who reported vaping cannabis in the past 30 days. Methods: Participants were interviewed to determine their attitudes and perceptions regarding cannabis vaping. Findings: Thematic analysis uncovered six primary themes and eighteen subthemes. Main themes included (1) Convenience, (2) Discreetness, (3) Mood-Altering Experience, (4) Social Acceptability, (5) Health and Safety, and (6) COVID-19 Pandemic Impact. Conclusion: College students who use cannabis tend to both vape and use combustible methods, depending upon social and physical environment. This population tends to vaporize cannabis for its perceived mood-altering properties. Additional research is needed to further examine the behaviors and attitudes surrounding cannabis vaping among college undergraduates, as well as the development of interventions specific to this demographic.