2020 Undergraduate Research Showcase
 

Title

Extracurricular Activities and Marijuana Use

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2020

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Megan Smith

Abstract

Extracurricular activities have been known to be a positive outlet for teenagers. Research has also shown there may be a link between substance use and extracurricular activities with mixed results. Thus, it is important to investigate how extracurricular activities may differentially impact substance use. The current study seeks to determine how extracurricular activities may potentially differentially impact marijuana use. The following activities were included in our analysis; participation in sports or sports teams, church groups, music/art/dance, volunteering in the community, and “other” after school programs such as chess club. Our findings in a multiple regression analysis (F=567.91 (1,9345) p<.01) indicated a significant and negative relationship for participation in sports (b=-.01), church groups (b=-.03), but a positive relationship when it came to volunteering in the community (b=.02). Findings confirm our hypothesis that extracurricular activities impact the likelihood of marijuana use differently. Sports and Church related activities seem to be protective, whereas volunteering in the community seems to be somewhat related to higher marijuana use. Further research should investigate these associations so we can help support young people staying on a positive path.

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