Chronic cannabis use in everyday life: Emotional, motivational, and self-regulatory effects of frequently getting high

Abstract

Approximately 200 million people consumed cannabis last year, with a significant proportion using it chronically. Using experience sampling, we describe the effects of chronically getting high on emotions, motivation, effort, and self-regulation in everyday life. We queried chronic users (N=260) 5 times per day over 7 days (3,701 observations) to assess both immediate effects of cannabis intoxication and longer-term, between-person effects. Results indicated that getting high amplified positive emotions and selectively diminished negative ones. Contrary to stereotypes, we observed minimal effects on motivation or objective effort willingness. However, it did reduce facets of conscientiousness. Notably, there was no evidence of a weed hangover. Frequent users exhibited higher negative emotions but were paradoxically more motivated. They also showed reduced self-control and willpower. Cannabis is currently having a moment, and we expect it to rise in use as laws and attitudes shift. Our findings provide a rich description of its chronic use.