Baseline Survey on Awareness, Knowledge and Behaviour Associated with Recreational Use of Marijuana - Final Report

PWGSC Contract: #EP363-090027/011/CY
POR Registration: POR-046-15
HC-POR 15-05
Contract Award Date: 16/03/2016

Submitted to:
Health Canada
por-rop@hc-sc.gc.ca
Ce rapport est aussi disponible en français.

EKOS RESEARCH ASSOCIATES INC.
September 2, 2016

Table of Contents

This certification is to be submitted with the final report submitted to the Project Authority.

I hereby certify as Senior Office of EKOS RESEARCH ASSOCIATES INC. that the deliverables fully comply with the Government of Canada political neutrality requirements outlined in the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada and Procedures for Planning and Contracting Public Opinion Research. Specifically, the deliverables do not include information on electoral voting intentions, political party preferences, standings with the electorate or ratings of the performance of a political party or its leader.

Signed:


Susan Galley, Senior Vice President
      EKOS Research Associates Inc.

Executive Summary

Research Purpose and Objectives

The purpose of the research was to learn more about public awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to marijuana, both in terms of the impacts that marijuana use has on health and the risks to public safety that use poses, such as driving while impaired. Respondents in the survey were told that the focus of the survey was on marijuana used for “recreational” rather than for medicinal purposes. The research was also designed to establish a baseline for the general population aged 13+ with regard to their current state of awareness, knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviours with respect to the risks and harms of marijuana use.

Methodology

A national online/telephone survey was conducted with 2,201 Canadians 13 years of age or older. The sample included three targeted segments: youth aged 13-18 (n=287), young adults aged 19-24 (n=372), and parents of youth aged 13-18 (n=532). The survey was conducted in late May and early June with a participation rate of 20 per cent (which is a typical response rate for this kind of survey). An oversample was collected in each of these three segments to ensure sufficient cases in the analysis of results for each individual group. Weighting was applied to the sample to ensure that the total sample of 2,201 reflects the characteristics of the general public by region, age, gender and parental status.

Knowledge Regarding Marijuana

Most Canadians understand how marijuana can be consumed, citing at least one or several methods of consumption. Smoking marijuana in a joint (33 per cent), general mention of smoking it (52 per cent), or eating it (69 per cent) are reported most often. Results are similar for the three target groups, although youth (i.e., those between 13 and 18) are less familiar with eating as a method of consumption. In terms of understanding of risk, two in three Canadians (65 per cent) are aware that some methods of using marijuana are more harmful to health than other ways. This understanding is higher among parents of youth (70 per cent), but lower among youth (52 per cent).

In terms of overall awareness, the large majority of Canadians are also aware that the drug is not currently legal (86 per cent), and results are similar across the target groups. In terms of risk assessment, the same proportion understands that it impairs one’s ability to drive, although young adults (i.e., those between the ages of 19 and 24) are less apt to agree with this risk assessment (77 per cent). In terms of specifics, when asked when is it safe for someone to drive a vehicle after using marijuana, more than one in three young adults cited “a couple of hours or less” (24 per cent), or “whenever the person feels the effect is gone” (15 per cent).

Perceived Acceptability and Risk

Just under half (48 per cent) agreed that marijuana use is socially acceptable, although 32 per cent disagreed. Acceptance is greatest among young adults (53 per cent) and lowest among teens under 16 (19 per cent). Seven in ten (69 per cent) also agree that it is something that youth and young adults will try, although youth themselves, particularly those under 16 are much less likely to agree (30 per cent).

While 41 per cent of Canadians see marijuana as a high health risk, 49 per cent see alcohol and 92 per cent see cigarette smoking as a high health risk. Young adults are even less likely to see marijuana as a health risk (27 per cent). In fact, 40 per cent of young adults consider the risk to be low, while only 14 per cent consider alcohol to be low risk, and only six per cent consider smoking cigarettes to be low risk. More than one in three youth (35 per cent) also rated the risk of marijuana as low (24 per cent among those under 16, and 38 per cent among those 16 to 18).

Those who have tried marijuana, and even more so, those who have used it in the last 12 months, are more likely to see the drug as socially acceptable (and that young people will try it), and less likely to see the risks. Since use of marijuana is strongly correlated with age and the greatest prevalence of use is between 19 and 45, there are strong patterns of responses associated with age.

Regarding the variation in risk to different age groups, there is largely universal agreement that it is harmful to teens (89 per cent), however, only 63 per cent see it as harmful to young adults (19 to 24), and this is lower among respondents in this age cohort (53 per cent). Just under half (48 per cent) see it as harmful to adults. The impact of marijuana on a range of skills is seen as harmful among 43 to 60 per cent of Canadians, but sizable proportions see it as having no impact, or even a positive influence. Marijuana is least apt to be judged as harmful to relationships with family and friends (43 per cent), mental health and physical health (47 per cent in each case). The drug is somewhat more apt to be seen as a threat to performance at school and attention and memory (according to approximately 60 per cent of Canadians). In each case, parents of youth, and youth themselves are more apt to see the drug as harmful. Younger teens under 16 are particularly likely to see marijuana as harmful, and there is a 10+ point gap between those under and over 16. The impact on addiction is seen as fairly likely with frequent (i.e., daily or almost daily) use according to 58 per cent of Canadians, but only 20 per cent see occasional use (less than weekly) as a threat. Youth, particularly those under 16, and their parents are more likely to see marijuana use leading to addiction (49 per cent of younger teens see even occasional use as likely to lead to addiction, and 80 per cent of younger teens and 73 per cent of parents of younger teens see frequent use as likely to lead to addiction).

Reported Use of Marijuana

Just over half (58 per cent) of the survey sample reported having used marijuana at some point in the past. The range is similar for young adults and parents of youth (54 to 59 per cent). Across the survey sample, the prevalence of trying the drug rises to 69 per cent among those 25 to 44 and declines sharply at 65. The prevalence is also somewhat higher among men (62 per cent) and residents of British Columbia (63 per cent). Those who have used marijuana overwhelmingly say that it is used in their social circle of friends and family (99 per cent), while those who have not tried it are less apt to report use among others they associate with (66 per cent).

Among the 58 per cent who have tried marijuana, just over a third (38 per cent) have used it in the last 12 months. That is, 22 per cent of the full survey sample indicated recent use (in the last 12 months). This is highest among young adults and those between 25 and 34 (36 per cent in each cohort). It is also 31 per cent among older teens (16+). Six per cent of younger teens have used it in the last 12 months. Most of those who have ever tried it first did so between 13 and 18 years of age (59 per cent) or when they were between 19 and 24 (23 per cent).

There is a range of frequency of use reported, with just over one in five (22 per cent) reporting daily use, and just under one in five reporting weekly use (17 per cent) or monthly use (18 per cent). Four in ten (42 per cent) use it a few times a year or less. Reasons for use largely relate to pleasure/recreation (36 per cent), relaxation (22 per cent) or curiosity (25 per cent). One in ten pointed to a desire to feel included. Most described smoking marijuana as their typical method of consumption (42 per cent indicating general mention of smoking it, 27 specifically saying they smoke it in a cigarette and 11 per cent describing use of a water pipe or bong). Relatively few (9 per cent) said they typically eat it in food, and fewer still described other methods of consumption. Most marijuana users typically obtain it from a friend according to survey results (78 per cent), although this is less likely among recent users (68 per cent). Obtaining the drug from someone who sells was reported in a much smaller proportion of cases (19 per cent).

Most of those who have never tried it or tried it but not in the last 12 months said that, even when marijuana becomes legal, they are unlikely to use it (85 per cent).

With regard to driving, 27 per cent of Canadians indicated that they have driven a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana at some point in the past. This is higher (42 per cent) among recent marijuana users. Over one in three Canadians (35 per cent) also reported that they have been a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone under the influence of marijuana. This figure rises to 42 per cent among young adults, and 70 per cent of recent marijuana users said that they have been in this position. Few Canadians said that they would be likely to accept a ride from someone under the influence of marijuana in the future (11 per cent with another 10 per cent saying moderately likely). This rises marginally to 13 per cent likely and 14 per cent moderately likely among young adults. Given that marijuana is seen as socially acceptable, it is less likely that the reported incidence of marijuana use in the survey is a result of participants wishing to respond in a socially acceptable manner (i.e. claiming not to have used marijuana, even when they have, to align with social norms). The fact that 86 per cent agree, however, that marijuana can impair driving ability suggests that the reported incidence of driving while under the influence or accepting a ride from someone under the influence of marijuana is more likely to suffer from under reporting due to the pressure to be portrayed in a socially acceptable light.

Information on Marijuana

Half of Canadians indicated that they have looked for information on marijuana with this figure rising to 64 per cent among young adults, and to 75 per cent among recent marijuana users. Two in three Canadians agree that they have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of the drug; this is highest among parents of youth (74 per cent) and recent users (85 per cent). The most likely source to be consulted for information about health and safety risks are health care professionals (53 per cent). This is followed at a distance by the Internet (15 per cent although somewhat more popular among young adults and parents of youth; 23 per cent in each case). Law enforcement as well as health professionals are the most likely sources for information about impaired driving (according to 30 and 25 per cent, respectively). In the case of both health risks and impaired driving, youth also consider parents and teachers to be key sources of information.

Topics of interest regarding the risks and effects or marijuana include health risks (60 per cent are interested), effects on driving (57 per cent are interested), effects of combining it with alcohol or other drugs (54 per cent are interested), and other risks for youth and young adults (54 per cent are interested). Variation in risk associated with different methods of consumption and different products, risk of addiction, laws and penalties and the physical and psychological effects of the drug are also of interest to 46 to 50 per cent of Canadians. Parents of youth are also interested in how to talk with teens about marijuana (51 per cent).

There is considerable variation reported between parents of youth and youth themselves about the incidence of having a conversation about marijuana; while this was reported to have taken place among 86 per cent of parents, only 58 per cent of youth themselves said the same. The kinds of topics discussed are varied, with health and safety, as well as social risk at the top of the list.

The total expenditure for the POR project is $81,416.50 (including HST).

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

The Government of Canada has identified a need to learn more about the public’s awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours with respect to the health and safety risks associated with marijuana use and of the risks and penalties associated with marijuana-impaired driving. Of particular interest are younger Canadians, among whom marijuana use is more prevalent. The need to explore this area of public opinion is spurred by the Government’s promise to legalize marijuana, but also to regulate and restrict access.

The purpose of the research was to learn more about public awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to marijuana, both in terms of the impacts that marijuana use has on health and the risks to public safety that use poses, such as driving while impaired. Respondents in the survey were told that the focus of the survey was on marijuana used for “recreational” rather than for medicinal purposes. The research was also designed to establish a baseline for the general population aged 13+ with regard to their current state of awareness, knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviours with respect to the risks and harms of marijuana use.

Specific research objectives included:

1.2 Methodology

EKOS Research Associates conducted a national survey of 2,201 residents of Canada aged 13 and older. The survey was conducted both online and by telephone among members of EKOS’ Probit panel, a randomly selected panel of Canadian households. The collection by sample cases by telephone was included to increase the overall representativeness of the sample, and in particularly increased the number of cases collected with the three target groups (youth 13 to 18 years of age, young adults 19 to 24 and parents of youth 13-18). The survey was conducted between May 24th and June 17th, 2016. The average interview length to complete the questionnaire was 17 minutes.

The sample included three targeted segments of youth aged 13-18 (n=287), young adults aged 19-24 (n=372), parents of youth aged 13-18 (n=532). An oversample was collected in each of these three segments to ensure sufficient cases in the analysis of results for each individual group. Weighting was applied to the sample to ensure that the total sample of n=2,201 reflects the characteristics of the general public by region, age, gender and parental status.

The Probit panel consists of randomly selected Canadians identified via telephone-based RDD dialling (they do not opt themselves into the panel), with a blended landline and cellphone sample frame providing equal probability sampling and full coverage of the Canadian population with access to a telephone. Because of this approach the samples derived from the Probit panel are considered probabilistic in nature. On this basis the total sample of n=2,201 obtains a +/-2.1 percentage point margin of error, calculated at a 95% confidence interval.

The targeted samples of youth, young adults and parents obtain the following margins of error:
Sample Sample Size Margin of Error
Youth (13-18) 287 5.8
Young adults (19-24) 372 5.1
Parents of youth (13-18) 532 4.2

The survey instrument was pre-tested with 31 cases (21 in English and 10 in French) to ensure that the data was being accurately recorded and that the questions were properly understood by respondents.

Respondents were invited to complete the survey via a bilingual e-mail invitation message sent to the randomly selected sample frame. The questionnaire was programmed online on a secure webserver accessible only to individuals with a valid PIN. Since the survey included respondents between the ages of 13 and 15, parental consent was obtained in advance to interview these respondents. Respondents were provided the ability to answer the survey either online or by telephone. Regardless of method, respondents were offered to complete the survey in the official language of their choice.

To reach the full sample of 2,201, a total of 18,084 panel members were randomly selected from the panel, using a stratified approach (to reach the three target groups, and ensure sufficient sample in smaller geographic regions with smaller populations). Added to this are another 134 sample members between the ages of 13 and 24, added based on referrals from parents in the original 18,084 Probit sample. Of these 4,930 were sent a bilingual email invitation to participate in the survey (and 134 were sent an email referred by a parent, or based on consent provided by a parent to email their teen). 1,457 cases were collected online using this sample. Another 13, 725 panel sample members were contacted by telephone, including 571 of the 4,930 invited by email who did not respond online. This segment was contacted by telephone after initial email invitations failed, because they belong to a group of particular interest in the survey sample. A total of 744 cases were completed by telephone with a participation rate of 18 per cent (see Appendix B for details of this calculation). The overall participation rate for the survey was 20 per cent including all sample members and completions from the various methods of participation (online and telephone). This is a typical participation rate for this kind of survey.

Respondents were informed in the invitation that all responses are completely confidential and no responses will be linked to individual names.

1.3 Note to Readers

Detailed findings are presented in the sections that follow. Overall results are presented in the main portion of the narrative and are typically supported by graphic or tabular presentation of results. Bulleted text is also used to point out any statistically and substantively significant differences between sub-groups of respondents. If differences are not noted in the report, it can be assumed that they are either not statistically significant1 in their variation from the overall result or that the difference was deemed to be substantively too small to be noteworthy. Appendices to this report include the programmed survey instrument (Appendix A).

It should be noted that the survey asks a numbers of questions about behaviours that may have a tendency to exert social desirability pressure for respondents to underreport their use of marijuana, for themselves and their children2 . The primary purpose of the survey is to provide a baseline against which future changes in awareness, knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviours can be subsequently measured.

Results for the proportion of respondents in the sample who either said “don’t know” or did not provide a response are not indicated in the graphic representation of the results unless they are sizable (e.g., ten per cent or greater). Results may also not total to 100 per cent due to rounding.

1.4 Sample Characteristics

The following table presents a sample profile for the baseline survey. This includes demographic characteristics related to employment, education, income, cultural attributes, language, age and region. Each is presented for the full sample of 2,201 Canadians, as well as for the three target groups: youth (between 13 and 18); young adults (19 to 24); and parents of youth (who have teens between 13 and 18).

Table 1.1: Demographics by Target Groups
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
3 The youth respondents were likely considering the length of time that their family has lived in Canada.
Which of the following categories best describes your current employment status? Are you...?
n= 2201 212 372 532
Working full-time (35 or more hours per week) 40% 8% 35% 54%
Working part-time (less than 35 hours per week) 10% 25% 23% 10%
Self-employed 8% 1% 2% 15%
Student attending full time school (not working) 7% 55% 26% 1%
Unemployed, but looking for work 4% 4% 8% 3%
Not in the workforce (e.g. unemployed, but not looking for work) 5% 3% 3% 8%
Retired 22% 0% 0% 5%
Other 3% 3% 1% 3%
No response 1% 1% 0% 0%
What is the highest level of formal education that you have completed to date?
n= 2201 287 372 532
Grade 8 or less 1% 10% 0% 0%
Some high school 6% 38% 4% 3%
High school diploma or equivalent 22% 39% 31% 11%
Registered Apprenticeship or other trades certificate or diploma 4% 1% 6% 4%
College, CEGEP or other non university certificate or diploma 20% 7% 24% 26%
University certificate or diploma below bachelors level 7% 0% 9% 10%
Bachelor's degree 24% 1% 23% 25%
Post graduate degree above bachelor's level 15% 3% 3% 20%
No response 0% 1% 0% 0%
Which of the following categories best describes your total household income? That is, the total income of all persons in your household, before taxes?
n= 1915 NA 372 532
Under $20,000 7%   14% 5%
$20,000 to just under $40,000 11%   18% 6%
$40,000 to just under $60,000 14%   13% 10%
$60,000 to just under $80,000 13%   12% 10%
$80,000 to just under $100,000 13%   8% 14%
$100,000 to just under $120,000 11%   8% 11%
$120,000 to just under $150,000 8%   5% 12%
$150,000 and above 13%   9% 24%
No response 10%   14% 8%
Were you born in Canada?
n= 2201 287 372 532
Yes 88% 87% 84% 87%
No 12% 12% 16% 13%
No response 0% 0% 0% 0%
How many years have you lived in Canada?
n= 271 35 58 69
Less than 5 years 8% 22% 25% 4%
5-9 years 11% 35% 16% 7%
10-19 years 19% 34% 48% 14%
20-29 years 12% 0% 11% 20%
30 or more years 51% 5%3 0% 55%
No response 0% 2% 0% 0%
Which of the following best describes your ethnic heritage?
n= 2201 287 372 532
White/European 88% 80% 74% 89%
Black or African American 3% 6% 6% 2%
Aboriginal 3% 3% 4% 3%
East Asian 3% 3% 11% 2%
Canadian, Quebecoise 2% 3% 0% 1%
South Asian 2% 3% 5% 2%
Hispanic, Latino, Spanish 1% 2% 2% 1%
Middle Eastern or North African 1% 4% 3% 1%
Other 1% 0% 0% 0%
No response 2% 2% 1% 4%
What is the language you speak most often at home?
n= 2201 287 372 532
English 76% 62% 68% 75%
French 24% 36% 29% 23%
Other 4% 8% 9% 5%
Gender
n= 2201 287 372 532
Male 48% 46% 48% 49%
Female 51% 51% 51% 51%
Other 0% 2% 0% 0%
No response 0% 2% 0% 0%
Age (unweighted)
n= 2201 287 372 532
13-18 13% 100% 0% 0%
19-24 17% 0% 100% 0%
25-34 9% 0% 0% 0%
35-44 13% 0% 0% 21%
45-54 23% 0% 0% 56%
55-64 13% 0% 0% 20%
65 up 11% 0% 0% 2%
No response 0% 0% 0% 0%
Region (unweighted)
n= 2201 287 372 532
Atlantic 9% 6% 13% 8%
Quebec 22% 36% 27% 19%
Ontario 35% 32% 29% 40%
Prairies 8% 7% 6% 9%
Alberta 11% 9% 12% 10%
British Columbia 14% 10% 14% 13%
Territories 0.6% 0.3% 0.3% 1.5%

The sample over represents those with post secondary education, including 46 per cent with a university level of education compared with 23 per cent in the population, and under represents those with high school/elementary or college levels of education. This is partially driven by the oversample of younger Canadians. There is also an under representation of those in the labour force (58 per cent compared with 67 per cent in the population). There are fewer Canadians born outside of Canada represented in the sample (12 per cent) than found in the population (25 per cent).

2. Findings

2.1 Knowledge of Marijuana

a) Methods of Consumption

Eating (69 per cent) and smoking marijuana (52 per cent as a general mention, 33 per cent specifically referring to a joint/cigarette and 21 per cent smoking through a pipe or a water pipe/Bong) are the main methods of consumption that Canadians are familiar with, followed by vaporization (19 per cent). Results are similar for the three target groups, although youth are less familiar with eating as a method of consumption.

Youth (41 per cent), young adults (56 per cent), and parents of youth (55 per cent) are more likely to point to smoking marijuana from a joint or cigarette specifically, compared with other Canadians. Each of these segments is also more likely to be aware of the ability to smoke through a pipe or bong (28 per cent of youth, 42 per cent of young adults, and 30 per cent of parents of youth).

Table 2.1: Understanding of Methods of Consuming Marijuana
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
From what you know, please list the ways people can consume marijuana?
n= 2201 287 372 532
Eating it 69% 51% 62% 71%
Smoke it, smoke (general mention) 52% 37% 28% 34%
Smoking in a joint/cigarette 33% 41% 56% 55%
Smoking through a pipe or a water pipe/Bong 21% 28% 42% 30%
Vaporizing by using a vaporiser 19% 10% 19% 16%
Oil, liquid, hash oil (general mention) 10% 5% 6% 7%
Putting it on skin. Applied directly to skin. 6% 3% 5% 8%
Pill, tablet form 6% 4% 3% 6%
Ingesting, orally, sublingual 6% 3% 4% 5%
Inhaling 4% 1% 2% 3%
Dabbing 3% 4% 7% 3%
Tinctures 3% 1% 3% 5%
Vaporising by using a vape pen 2% 2% 5% 5%
Secondhand smoke (various and general mention) 1% 1% 2% 0%
Injections 1% 3% 1% 1%
Hashish 1% 2% 1% 2%
Snorting, sniffing 1% 1% 2% 1%
Not familiar with how marijuana is used 0% 1% 0% 1%
Other 1% 1% 2% 0%
Don't know 10% 18% 10% 7%

b) Risks Associated with Methods of Consumption

Two in three Canadians (65 per cent) agree that some methods of using marijuana are more harmful to health than other ways. Agreement is marginally higher among parents of youth. It is lowest among youth, where there is greater uncertainty (i.e., 18 per cent said neither agree nor disagree and 10 per cent said that they do not know).

Understanding of Risk of Methods of Consumption

"To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Some methods of using marijuana, such as smoking it, pose greater health risks than other methods."

chart1: Understanding of Risk of Methods of Consumption
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 1

c) Safety in Driving a Vehicle

Most Canadians agree that marijuana impairs one’s ability to operate a vehicle (86 per cent). Agreement is lower, however, among young adults (77 per cent). Agreement is also marginally lower among youth, where 82 per cent agree. Almost all parents of youth see the risks of driving while high (90 per cent).

Understanding of Risk of Impaired Driving

"To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Using marijuana impaires one's ability to drive or operate a vehicle."

Understanding of Risk of Impaired Driving
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 2

Although one in four Canadians (23 per cent) were not able to hazard a guess about the length of time required to safely drive a vehicle after consuming marijuana, a similar proportion believe that a night of sleep is required (25 per cent), followed by 15 per cent believing that three or more hours are required. Although responses are also similar among youth, young adults and parents of youth, youth are the most conservative in their assumption of how long one should wait. Those aged 19 to 24 are more likely than others to believe that a couple of hours or less is a reasonable period of time to wait (21 per cent).

Table 2.2: Safety to Drive a Vehicle
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
As far as you know, when is it safe for an older teen/someone your age to drive a vehicle after using marijuana?
n= 2201 287 372 532
Right away 2% 0% 3% 3%
Within one hour 2% 2% 5% 2%
Within a couple of hours 11% 9% 16% 10%
At least three or more hours afterward 15% 18% 24% 17%
After a night of sleep 25% 31% 20% 26%
Whenever the person feels like the effect is gone 9% 15% 12% 6%
24 hrs later, a day later 2% 2% 0% 2%
8-12 hours 1% 0% 2% 2%
Never, not at all safe 5% 5% 4% 5%
Depends on person/quantity/weight/type, everybody varies 3% 1% 2% 2%
2 days or more 1% 0% 0% 1%
Other 0% 1% 0% 1%
Don't know 23% 13% 11% 22%

d) Current Legal Status

Most Canadians (86 per cent) understand that it is not currently legal to have, use or sell marijuana in Canada for non-medical purposes. Parents of youth are more likely to know that marijuana is not legal in Canada (90 per cent). Youth and young adults are less likely than the rest of the general population to understand that marijuana is not legal to have, use, or sell in Canada; 80 and 84 per cent respectively know that it is not legal.

Knowledge of Current Legal Status

"Is it legal to have, use or sell marijuana in Canada today for non-medical purposes?"

Knowledge of Current Legal Status
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 3

e) Perception of Social Acceptability of Marijuana

Just over two in three Canadians believe that it is expected that teenagers will try marijuana (69 per cent). This is similar among young adults and parents of youth relative to all Canadians 13 and over. It is much lower, however, among youth themselves (49 per cent). In fact, 31 per cent of youth disagree that it is expected that teenagers and young adults will try marijuana. On the other hand, almost half of Canadians agree that using marijuana is socially acceptable (48 per cent). This is again lowest among youth, although the gap is not as wide (40 per cent). This belief is considerably higher among young adults (53 per cent).

Perceptions of Use

"To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?"

Perceptions of Use
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 4

Belief that it is expected for teenagers and young adults to try marijuana...

Belief that using marijuana is socially acceptable...

2.2 Perceived Health Risks of Marijuana

a) Comparative Health Risks

When asked about the health risk of frequent use (daily or more often) of recreational marijuana, alcoholic beverages and cigarette smoking, Canadians are least concerned about marijuana, with 41 per cent rating it as a high risk. In fact, 25 per cent rated it as a low risk. This is compared with 49 per cent rating alcohol as high risk, but only 10 per cent rating the risk as low. By comparison, cigarette smoking is considered much more dangerous, with 92 per cent rating the risk as high.

Across the three target groups, parents of youth are the most likely to rate the risk of frequent use of marijuana as high (50 per cent; 54 per cent among parents of teens under 16), followed by youth themselves (40 per cent; 55 per cent among those under 16). Younger adults are the least apt to see the risk as high (27 per cent). In fact, 40 per cent of young adults consider the risk to be low, while only 14 per cent consider frequent use of alcohol to be low risk, and only six per cent consider frequent cigarette smoking to be low risk. It is noteworthy that more than one in three youth (35 per cent) also rated the risk of marijuana as low, ranging from 24 per cent among those under 16 and 38 per cent among those 16 to 18.

Comparative Health Risks

"How much of a health risk would you say that each of the following pose if used frequently (daily and more)?"

Comparative Health Risks
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 5

b) Perceived Harm for Different Age Groups

There is fairly universal agreement that marijuana is harmful to teens between the ages of 13 and 18, according to 89 per cent of Canadians. Six in ten (63 per cent) see marijuana as harmful to young adults, although 10 per cent see it as beneficial. Just under half (48 per cent) see marijuana as harmful to adults, while 19 per cent see it as beneficial for adults.

Agreement regarding the harmful effects on teens is also fairly universal across the three target groups, although only 84 per cent of teens themselves would agree. Fewer young adults also see it as harmful for their own age group (53 per cent), followed by 58 per cent of youth. Young adults are also the least likely to see the harm for adults (41 per cent).

Perceived Harm for Target Segments

"For each of the following age groups, please indicate how harmful or beneficial you think marijuana would be if taken occasionally (less than weekly)?"

Perceived Harm for Target Segments
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 6

c) Perceived Impact of Use

When asked about the impact of marijuana use in five different areas (attention, memory, performance at work or school, physical and mental health, relationships with family and friends), between 43 and 60 per cent of Canadians indicated that the effects of even occasional use of marijuana are harmful. At the top of the list are attention and memory, as well as performance. Just under half (47 per cent) also believe that occasional use of marijuana is harmful to physical and mental health, and only slightly fewer (43 per cent) see the effects on relationships as harmful. Relatively few (between six and thirteen per cent) see recreational marijuana use as beneficial, except in the area of mental health where 25 per cent see the potential for benefit.

Generally, youth and parents of youth are more apt to see the harmful effects of occasional marijuana use, compared with young adults, with the exception of attention and memory, where two in three see the impact as harmful. By contrast, youth are the segment most apt to see the harmful effects of marijuana use in most of these areas, excluding performance at school and relationships with family and friends, where results are similar to those provided by parents of youth.

Perceived Impact of Use

"For your age group, please indicate how harmful or beneficial you think occasional use of marijuana (i.e. less than weekly) is to each of the following?"

Perceived Impact of Use
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 7

d) Impact on Addiction

Most Canadians believe that there is a considerable difference in the likelihood of addiction to marijuana based on intensity of use. While only 20 per cent believe that it is likely that one would become addicted from occasional use (i.e. less than weekly), 58 per cent see this as likely with frequent use (i.e., daily or almost daily). In fact, 56 per cent of Canadians believe that it is unlikely that someone would become addicted to marijuana if used less than weekly.

Young adults are the least likely to attribute addictive properties to marijuana, even with frequent use (52 per cent) and only 18 per cent see it as likely with occasional use. Youth and parents of youth are more likely than other Canadians to see marijuana as addictive, even with occasional use.

Impact on Addiction

"How likely is occasional/frequent use of marijuana to lead to addiction or dependence to marijuana?"

Impact on Addiction
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 8

2.3 Reported Behaviour

a) Use of Marijuana in Social Networks

Overall, 84 per cent of the Canadian population know people in their own network of family and/or friends who have used marijuana. Young adults (87 per cent) and parents of youth (85 per cent) reported knowing people who have used marijuana at a similar rate as the overall result. Youth are less likely to report knowing someone who has used the drug (75 per cent), particularly younger teens under 16 (58 per cent compared with 81 per cent among older teens).

Reported Use of Marijuana in Social Circle/Family

"As far as you know, have people around you (e.g., friends or family) ever used marijuana?"

Reported Use of Marijuana in Social Circle/Family
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 9

b) Personal Use of Marijuana

Just under six in ten Canadians (58 per cent) said that they have used marijuana at some point. Young adults (54 per cent) and parents of youth (59 per cent) reported having used marijuana at a rate that is similar to the overall survey result. Youth are the least likely to have used the drug (31 per cent), particularly younger teens under 16 (9 per cent compared with 39 per cent among older teens).

Reported Personal Use of Marijuana

"Have you ever used marijuana"

Reported Personal Use of Marijuana
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 10

Of those who have ever used marijuana, 38 per cent said that they have used it in the last 12 months. Youth (78 per cent) and young adults (66 per cent) are significantly more likely to have used marijuana in the past 12 months, although the sample of youth responding to the question is relatively small at 90 cases, and youth are less likely to have had time to try marijuana in a period of time prior to 12 months before the survey, particularly younger teens. Parents of youth (24 per cent) are the least likely to report using marijuana in the last 12 months; lower than the overall survey result of 38 per cent.

Taking into consideration the full sample of this survey, 22 per cent reported recent use of marijuana in the last 12 months; 36 per cent among young adults, 24 per cent among youth and 14 per cent among parents of youth. The figure of 24 per cent among youth is driven by a high proportion among older teens (31 per cent) and low percentage of use among 13 to 15 year old teens (6 per cent).

Reported Recent Use of Marijuana

"Have you used marijuana in the past 12 months?"

Perceptions of Use
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 11

Most of those who have ever used marijuana started between the ages of 13 and 18 (59 per cent), or between 19 and 24 (23 per cent). Only slightly more than one in ten (11 per cent) started after this age.

Table 2.3: Initial Age of Marijuana Use
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
How old were you when you first tried marijuana?
n= 1227 90 203 316
<13 3% 8% 4% 3%
13-18 59% 86% 77% 69%
19-24 23% 3% 16% 19%
25-34 7% 0% 0% 6%
35-44 3% 0% 0% 1%
45-54 1% 0% 0% 0%
55-64 0% 0% 0% 0%
65+ 0% 0% 0% 0%

c) Frequency of Use

Among those who have used marijuana in the last 12 months, approximately one in five (22 per cent) reported using marijuana daily with no significant difference between age groups and parents. One in five likewise indicated that they have used marijuana a few times a week (17 per cent) or a few times per month (18 per cent). Roughly one-quarter (26 per cent) of Canadians said that they use marijuana a few times a year; this is higher among young adults (34 per cent). Under one in five (16 per cent) said they used marijuana fewer than a few times in the past year.

Reported Intensity of Use

"Over the past 12 months, how often have you used marijuana on average?"

Reported Intensity of Use
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 12

Youth and young adults who reported using marijuana on less than a weekly basis were asked how many times they had used marijuana over the past 12 months. Among youth who used marijuana less than weekly, just over half (52 per cent) report using marijuana between two and four times over the past year, while 37 per cent report using it five times or more4. Among young adults who used marijuana less than weekly, 34 per cent report using marijuana between two and four times, while over half (53 per cent) report using it five times or more (in the past 12 months).

Frequency of Use if Not Weekly (Under 25 only)

"Over the past 12 months, how many times have you used marijuana?"

Frequency of Use if Not Weekly (Under 25 only)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 13

d) Reasons for Use

Among those who have tried marijuana, reasons for use relate largely to pleasure/social events (36 per cent), curiosity (25 per cent), or relaxation (22 per cent). Parents of youth are the most likely of the three groups of interest to report curiosity (25 per cent), or desire for inclusion (21 per cent), whereas youth and young adults are much more likely to use it for relaxation (40 and 28 per cent, respectively). Young adults in particular are more likely to use marijuana out of a sense of enjoyment associated with its use (14 per cent).

Table 2.4: Reasons for Personal Use of Marijuana (among those who have ever tried it)
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
What was/is your own personal reason for using marijuana?
n= 1227 90 203 316
Recreationally, for pleasure, social/parties with friends 36% 37% 37% 24%
Curiosity 25% 16% 11% 25%
It relaxes me (relieves stress/anxiety) 22% 40% 28% 14%
To be included/Because others (e.g., friends) use it 10% 6% 12% 21%
I like the feeling 9% 8% 14% 11%
Physical relief/management 7% 4% 5% 3%
Because I have a medical reason for using it 3% 1% 4% 5%
Pressured by others to use it 2% 0% 2% 8%
For focus/concentration, focus energy/thoughts 2% 6% 2% 0%
Mental illness, depression, ptsd 2% 3% 1% 1%
Less harmful than alcohol/prescription drugs, less side effects 2% 0% 1% 2%
Youth, I was young, it was the 70's/60's (general mention) 2% 0% 0% 3%
Spiritual/discovery reasons 1% 0% 1% 1%
It helps me escape 1% 2% 1% 2%
It relieves boredom 0% 1% 0% 2%
Other 1% 0% 0% 1%
Don't know 2% 5% 6% 2%
No response 3% 5% 6% 1%

e) Methods of Use

Four in ten Canadians who have ever used marijuana reported that they smoke it (42 per cent – general mention), and another 27 per cent specifically indicated that they smoke it in a joint/cigarette). Both the use of a water pipe and eating it are much less frequent methods of use (11 and 9 per cent, respectively). Among youth and young adults, there is greater use of water pipes. Among youth specifically, there is also a slightly higher proportion (12 per cent) who are eating it.

Table 2.5: Methods of Consumption
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
How do you usually consume marijuana?
n= 1227 90 203 316
Smoke it, smoke (general mention) 42% 27% 23% 24%
Smoking in a joint/cigarette 27% 42% 47% 52%
Smoking through a pipe or a water pipe/Bong 11% 24% 26% 9%
Eating it (e.g., cooked into food) 9% 12% 7% 8%
Vaporizing by using a vaporiser 6% 1% 6% 4%
Inhaling 3% 2% 3% 2%
Ingesting, orally, sublingual 1% 0% 0% 1%
Vaporising by using a vape pen 0% 2% 1% 0%
Putting it on skin. Applied directly on skin. 0% 0% 0% 1%
Tinctures 0% 0% 0% 1%
Secondhand smoke (various and general mention) 0% 0% 0% 1%
Oil, liquid, hash oil (general mention) 0% 0% 0% 1%
Don't know 18% 17% 9% 14%

f) Sources of Marijuana

When asked where they get their marijuana from, most Canadians reported a friend as the key source (78 per cent); 19 per cent said that they get it from someone who sells it (i.e., not a friend); and 10 per cent cited a family member. Stores that sell marijuana were cited infrequently (5 per cent) as is also the case for growing a personal supply (4 per cent).

There are few significant differences among the target groups in where they say they get marijuana. Youth are more likely than the average to say they get it from a friend (84 per cent) and less likely to say they get it from someone who sells it, but is not a friend (15 per cent). Young adults are less likely to say they get it from a friend (71 per cent) and more likely to say they get it from someone who sells it, but is not a friend (23 per cent).

Sources of Marijuana Consumed

"Where did/do you get your marijuana?"

Sources of Marijuana Consumed
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 14

g) Reported Interest Once Legal

When legalized in Canada, most Canadians with no prior use, as well as those who have not used marijuana in the past 12 months, indicated that it is not likely that they would use or try marijuana. The majority of Canadians (85 per cent) said that it is not very or not at all likely that they will try marijuana, while eight per cent feel it is moderately likely and six per cent said it is likely or very likely they will try marijuana when it is legalized5.

Parents of youth (4 per cent) are less likely to anticipate using marijuana once legalized. Youth (9 per cent) and young adults (8 per cent) are marginally more apt to say that they would.

Reported Interest Once Legal

"When legalized in Canada how likely would you be to use/try marijuana?"

Reported Interest Once Legal
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 15

h) Operation of Vehicle While Impaired

Of the 58 per cent of the sample who have ever used marijuana, over one in four who are 16 years of age or older said they have driven or operated a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana (27 per cent). This proportion is significantly lower among youth (11 per cent), but closer to the overall survey result among young adults (23 per cent) and parents of youth (28 per cent).

Reported Operation of Vehicle While Impaired

"Have you ever driven or operated a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana?"

Reported Operation of Vehicle While Impaired
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 16

One in three Canadians (35 per cent) reported that they have been the passenger in a vehicle where the driver was under the influence of marijuana. Youth are significantly less likely to have been a passenger in a car where the driver was under the influence of marijuana (21 per cent), largely shaped by the infrequency among younger teens (4 per cent compared with 26 per cent among older teens), while young adults are significantly more likely to have done so (42 per cent).

Reported Acceptance of Ride (Impaired Driver)

"Have you ever been a passenger in a vehicle where the driver was under the influence of marijuana?"

Reported Acceptance of Ride (Impaired Driver)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 17

More than three in four Canadians (77 per cent) said they would be unlikely to accept a ride from someone they knew to be under the influence of marijuana. Among the target groups, 81 per cent of youth, 72 per cent of young adults and 82 per cent of parents of youth reported they would be unlikely to accept a ride from someone under the influence of marijuana. Again younger teens (under 16) are the most likely to say they would not accept a ride (87 per cent compared with 78 per cent among older teens).

Likelihood of Accepting a Ride (Impaired Driver)

"How likely would you be to accept a ride from someone who you knew was under the influence of marijuana?"

Likelihood of Accepting a Ride (Impaired Driver)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 18

2.4 Perceptions of Parents

a) Use of Marijuana

Among all parents of youth and/or young adults one in three (34 per cent) believe that their child has used marijuana at some point. Nearly half (47 per cent) of parents of young adults (19-24) believe this to be the case. This is lower than the 54 per cent of young adults themselves who report that they have used marijuana. One-quarter (25 per cent) of parents of youth also believe that their teenager has used marijuana6, which is relatively similar to the 31 per cent of youth who reported that they have used marijuana. This belief is more limited among parents of teens under 16 (16 per cent say their 13 to 15 year old has tried it, compared with 33 per cent who say the same about their 16 to 18 year old). While this compares well to the 33 per cent of older teens who themselves report some previous use of the drug it is a large over reporting of teens under 16, among whom only 9 per cent indicated previous use.

Incidence of Use (Reported by Parents)

"As far as you know, has your teenager ever used marijuana?"

Incidence of Use (Reported by Parents)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 19

b) Impaired Driving

Only a very small proportion of parents of any age (2 per cent) believe that their teenager has driven a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana. This is true of parents of youth 16 to 18 as well as among parents of young adults, although larger proportions of the latter group of parents said they do not know (14 per cent). This is in comparison with four per cent of 16 to 18 year old youth themselves who reported driving while under the influence, along with 12 per cent of young adults themselves who reported the same.

Youth Incidence of Impaired Driving (Reported by Parents)

"As far as you know, has your teenager ever driven a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana?"

Youth Incidence of Impaired Driving (Reported by Parents)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 20

Although few parents of teenagers reported that their child has driven under the influence of marijuana, the incidence is higher for those who believe that their teenager has accepted a ride from a driver who was under the influence of marijuana. Across all parents of youth and young adults seven per cent believe that their child has accepted a ride, 59 per cent say that they have not and 33 per cent are unsure. Parents of youth are more apt to report that their teenager has never accepted a ride with a marijuana impaired driver (73 per cent), although 21 per cent are not sure. Among parents of young adults only 42 per cent believe that their 19 to 24 year old son or daughter has not accepted a ride from someone driving under the influence of marijuana, while almost half (48 per cent) are not sure.

Youth Incidence of Accepting Ride (Reported by Parents)

"As far as you know has your teenager ever accepted a ride with a driver who was under the influence of marijuana?"

Youth Incidence of Accepting Ride (Reported by Parents)
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 21

2.5 Information on Marijuana

Incidence of Looking for Information

About half of Canadians in the survey sample (51 per cent) have looked for information on the effects of using marijuana. Proportions are similar to the overall result among youth and parents of youth, however, the incidence of looking for information is higher among young adults (64 per cent). Among parents, it is those raising older teens (16 and up) who are more apt to have sought information (59 per cent).

Incidence of Looking for Information

"Have you ever looked for information on the effects of using marijuana?"

Incidence of Looking for Information
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 22

Two in three Canadians in the survey sample also said that they have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of marijuana to make informed choices (68 per cent). Agreement is similar among young adults and youth relative to all Canadians. Parents are most likely to say that they have access to sufficient information (74 per cent), although this is more often the case among parents of older teens (77 per cent compared with 69 per cent of parent of younger teens).

Access to Trustworthy Information

"To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? I have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of marijuana use to make informed decisions."

Access to Trustworthy Information
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 23

Overall, physicians and other health care professionals are seen as the most likely source for information about the health risks of marijuana (53 per cent). This is followed by the Internet at 15 per cent. Among youth there is greater reliance on parents (22 per cent), teachers (23 per cent), and friends (14 per cent). Younger teens emphasized teachers and parents more often than older teens, while older teens were more apt to suggest other family, friends and health care providers as sources they go to. Among young adults the Internet (23 per cent) and friends (18 per cent) are key additional sources.

Table 2.6: Preferred Sources of Information about Health Risks of Marijuana
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
Sources cited by 2 or more per cent.
Please list who you would be most likely to speak with for information on the health and safety risks of marijuana.
n= 2201 287 372 532
Doctors/health professional/nurse/hospital/
health clinic
53% 36% 48% 60%
Internet, Google searches 15% 13% 23% 23%
Friend 8% 14% 18% 6%
Teachers/counsellors/social worker 8% 23% 8% 8%
Experienced users/former users, friends/family of users 5% 3% 4% 2%
Research professionals, scientists, research foundations 4% 2% 3% 4%
Other family/family 4% 9% 6% 4%
Journals, scientific peer reviewed studies, books/literature 3% 1% 3% 4%
Law enforcement 3% 2% 2% 5%
Your parents 3% 22% 8% 0%
Health Canada 2% 1% 1% 2%
Pharmacist 2% 1% 2% 2%
Other 3% 3% 3% 3%
Don't know 18% 16% 17% 10%
No response 7% 6% 4% 5%

In terms of sources of information regarding safety in driving a vehicle, law enforcement (30 per cent) and health care professionals (25 per cent) are the two primary sources. Young adults and parents of youth are marginally more likely than others to rely on the Internet as a third preferred source. Among youth specifically, teachers and parents are also key sources of information (15 and 19 per cent, respectively). Younger teens were again more apt to point to teachers than older teens.


Table 2.7: Preferred Sources of Information about Safety Risks of Impaired Driving
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
Sources cited by 2 or more per cent, with exception of government sources.
Please list who you would be most likely to speak with for information on marijuana impaired driving.
n= 2201 287 372 532
Law enforcement 30% 18% 24% 40%
Doctors/health professional/nurse/hospital/health clinic 25% 18% 24% 28%
Internet, Google searches 9% 9% 14% 12%
Friend 4% 8% 8% 4%
Research professionals, scientists, research foundations 4% 2% 2% 4%
Experienced users/former users, friends/family of users 3% 3% 3% 2%
Teachers/counsellors/social worker 3% 15% 3% 3%
Your parents 2% 19% 3% 0%
Other family/family 2% 5% 5% 3%
Journals, scientific peer reviewed studies, books/literature 2% 1% 2% 2%
Provincial motor vehicle departments 1% 1% 1% 1%
Government of Canada sources (various, general mention) 1% 1% 1% 1%
Other 2% 2% 2% 1%
Don't know 24% 23% 25% 14%
No response 9% 9% 7% 7%

Topics of interest are varied and in high demand, including health risks and effects on driving (60 and 57 per cent, respectively), followed by effects of combining marijuana with other substances and risks for youth and young adults (54 per cent in each case). Risks associated with different methods of consumption, of addiction, relevant laws and penalties, and actual effects of marijuana use are also of strong interest, according to about half of Canadians (50, 48, 47 and 46 per cent, respectively). Younger teens (under 16) are particularly interested in information about laws and penalties (59 per cent). Parents of youth are also strongly interested in information about how to discuss marijuana with youth (51 per cent), particularly parents of younger teens (55 per cent), which is also true for younger teens themselves compared with older teens (30 per cent compared with 17 per cent among those 16 to 18).

Table 2.8: Topics of Interest
  Canadians (13+) Youth (13-18) Young Adults
(19-24)
Parents of Youth
What information would you like to know about the risks and effects of marijuana?
n= 2201 287 372 532
Health risks 60% 58% 64% 63%
Effects of marijuana on driving 57% 47% 57% 62%
Effects of combining marijuana with alcohol or other drugs 54% 56% 58% 57%
Risks for youth and young adults 54% 54% 59% 65%
The risks of different types of products and ways to consume 50% 44% 52% 53%
Risk of addiction 48% 53% 50% 55%
The law and penalties 47% 55% 54% 53%
What physical/psychological effects happen when you use 46% 54% 55% 49%
How to talk with your parents/teens about marijuana 19% 20% 23% 51%
Long term effects on neurological function/memory, long term 2% 1% 1% 3%
Positive effects of use, benefits on medical/psychological 2% 0% 2% 1%
Other 2% 2% 1% 1%
I have no interest/need for information 19% 14% 16% 13%

2.6 Discussions with Youth/Parents

a) Reported Incidence of Discussions with Youth/Parents

There is considerable variation reported between parents of youth (13 to 18) and youth themselves (13 to 18) about the incidence of having a conversation about marijuana. While this was reported to have taken place among 86 per cent of parents of youth (13 to 18), only 58 per cent of youth themselves said the same7.

Reported Incidence of Discussions

"Have you discussed marijuana use with your parent(s)/teenager(s)?"

Reported Incidence of Discussions
Health Canada Survey, 2016

Text Description - Figure 24

Among the topics discussed, health and safety, as well as social risks are the primary topics according to both parents of youth (13 to 18) (49 per cent) and youth (29 per cent). Parents of youth also said that conversations have touched on effects on the body (24 per cent), legal consequences (17 per cent), addiction (16 per cent), and “just saying no” (14 per cent). Youth are more likely than parents of youth to report discussions about people in their social circle who are using or have used marijuana (29 per cent).

Table 2.9: Topics of Discussions with Youth
  Youth (13-18) Parents of Youth
With respect to marijuana, what have you discussed with your parent(s)/teenager(s)?
n= 165 459
Marijuana has health and safety, and social risks (e.g., reduced motivation and drive, reduced interaction with family/friends) 29% 49%
Discussed health issues / effects of marijuana on the body 10% 24%
Discussed addictive nature 7% 16%
Legal consequences of marijuana 7% 17%
Just say no / stay away from marijuana 4% 14%
Effects of it when taken, what happens, inhibitions/judgement 9% 9%
Outlined parents’ rules if they do consume/use marijuana 7% 10%
Discussed effects of marijuana use on driving 4% 11%
Discussed self/peers/family doing marijuana 15% 7%
Usage, if/who they know takes it, if they have tried it/when 14% 7%
Peer pressure 2% 10%
Leads to other drugs 2% 8%
Quality of product, where it comes from, trust the source 5% 6%
Discussed accepting a ride with a driver who was under the influence 1% 8%
Legalization, changes to legislation/legalizations, implications 8% 4%
Using marijuana doesn't solve problems 2% 7%
Discussed reputation risks 2% 5%
Positive/benefits, medical uses and benefits 7% 3%
Saw/heard about drugs in school/at a social function 4% 4%
A show/news/book about marijuana use 1% 2%
Responsible behaviour, make responsible decisions 0% 3%
Don't recall/No response 24% 6%

Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire

General email invitation

EKOS Survey Invitation

(La version française du message suit)

Dear member of the Probit research panel,

EKOS Research Associates has been commissioned by the Government of Canada to conduct a survey with the Canadian public on the subject of marijuana use. The survey will be used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of Canadians when it comes to marijuana. Our goal is to obtain the most unbiased and candid answers possible to help inform policy decisions, create communication and informational materials, and measure changes in attitudes and behaviour over time.

This survey is registered with Marketing Research and Intelligence Association's (MRIA) Research Registration System. It is important to note that all of your responses will remain strictly confidential. Your personal information will not in any way be associated with any of the answers that you provide in the data that we report back to the Government of Canada. Your answers will be combined along with those of thousands of other Canadians. No personally identifying information associated with the survey responses will be shared or stored in any fashion.

To begin the survey, click on the link below.

START THE SURVEY

If you have any issue with the link above please copy the following link into your browser:

You can stop the survey at any time. For any questions on the survey and any technical difficulties, please contact Jeremie Blanc, with EKOS Research Associates, at jblanc@ekos.com.

Thank you in advance for your participation in this study.

EKOS Research Associates

TOPIC
Marijuana, attitudes and opinions

LENGTH
15 minutes

Parent email invitation

EKOS Survey Invitation

(La version française du message suit)

Dear member of the Probit research panel,

EKOS Research Associates has been commissioned by the Government of Canada to conduct a survey with the Canadian public on the subject of marijuana use. The survey will be used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of teen aged children (teenagers) when it comes to marijuana. Our goal is to obtain the most unbiased and candid answers possible to help inform policy decisions, create communication and informational materials, and measure changes in attitudes and behaviour over time.

We would like to include your teenager in this very important study and are asking your permission to include them in our sample. In doing so, please understand that your teenager's responses to the survey questions are strictly confidential.

This survey is registered with Marketing Research and Intelligence Association's (MRIA) Research Registration System and follows strict ethical guidelines with regard to survey research for those under 16. Personal information will not in any way be associated with any of the answers provided in the data that we report back to the Government of Canada. You will not be able to obtain your teenager's responses, which will be combined with those of thousands of other Canadians. No personally identifying information associated with the survey responses will be shared or stored in any fashion.

In this spirit, it is also very important that your teenager knows that their survey responses are strictly confidential and that they be permitted to answer the survey questions as honestly as possible, without worrying about anyone scrutinizing their answers. For the findings to be useful it is important that we obtain the most candid answers possible.

To register your teenager to participate, please click the link below.

VISIT THE SITE

If you have any issue with the link above please copy the following link into your browser:

For questions on the survey and any technical difficulties, please contact EKOS Research Associates at online@ekos.com.

Thank you in advance for your participation in this study.

EKOS Research Associates

TOPIC
Health, attitudes and opinions

LENGTH
15 minutes

TEEN email invitation

EKOS Survey Invitation

(La version française du message suit)

Hello,

EKOS Research Associates has been asked by the Government of Canada to conduct a survey with teens about knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of teenagers, like you, when it comes to marijuana.

This survey is registered with Marketing Research and Intelligence Association's (MRIA) Research Registration System. Personal information will not be connected with any of the answers you provide in the information that we report back to the Government of Canada. Your parent or legal guardian will not be able to look at your responses, which will be combined with those of other Canadians. No personally identifying information linked with your answers will be shared or stored.

Your parent or legal guardian has given permission for you to participate in this very important study. Your participation is voluntary, so it is up to you to decide whether you are willing to answer, but we hope you do! You can do the survey on your computer, laptop, table or phone. You can stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable, or just choose not to respond to any question. To protect your privacy you will not be able to go back to previous pages for some questions and once you complete the questionnaire your case is locked. Your answers will not be shown to your parent(s)s/legal guardian(s), teachers or anyone else, so please be as honest as you can.

If the survey makes you feel like you would like to talk to someone about this topic, the Kid's Help Line can provide you with someone to write to or talk to. Their website is www.kidshelpphone.ca.

To start the survey, please click the link below.

START THE SURVEY

If you have any problems with the link just copy this link into your browser:

For questions on the survey and any technical difficulties, please contact EKOS Research Associates at online@ekos.com.

Thank you for taking the time help us out with this important study.

EKOS Research Associates

TOPIC
Health, attitudes and opinions

LENGTH
15 minutes

PINTRO

PHONE INTRO
Hello, my name is ... and I work for EKOS Research Associates. <May I speak with ?> We are conducting a survey. Would you mind if we asked you some questions? All your responses will be kept strictly confidential. May I begin?

If asked: This survey should take about 15 minutes.

WINTRO

WEB INTRO
Thank you for agreeing to complete this survey. All your responses will be kept strictly confidential. A few reminders before beginning...

On each screen, after selecting your answer, click on the "Continue" button at the bottom of the screen to move forward in the survey.

If you leave the survey before completing it, you can return to the survey URL later, and you will be returned to the page where you left off. Your answers up to that point in the survey will be saved.

If you have any questions about how to complete the survey, please call EKOS Research Associates at 800.388.2873 or send an email to online@ekos.com. Thank you in advance for your participation.

PRIV

Phone
This call may be recorded for quality control or training purposes.

QCHILD

A few questions in the survey are also intended for parents. Are you the parent or legal guardian of any children currently living in the household? If so, how many?

Yes (please enter number of children) 1 >
No 2
No response 9

QCHILDA [1,5]

Parents, QCHILD
If... QCHILD = 1

What are the ages of children in the home?
Select all that apply
Under 5 1
6 to 12 2
13 to 15 3
16 to 18 4
19 or older 5
No response 9 X

PQ1

How much of a health risk would you say that each of the following pose if used frequently (daily and more). <[PHONE]You can answer with no health risk at all, minimal health risk, moderate health risk, high health risk, or very high health risk.>

Q1B

Recreational use of marijuana
No health risk at all 1
Minimal health risk 2
Moderate health risk 3
High health risk 4
Very high health risk 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q1D

Cigarette smoking
No health risk at all 1
Minimal health risk 2
Moderate health risk 3
High health risk 4
Very high health risk 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q1E

Drinking alcoholic beverages
No health risk at all 1
Minimal health risk 2
Moderate health risk 3
High health risk 4
Very high health risk 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

PQ2A

This survey focuses on recreational use of marijuana or marijuana-based products. That is use that is only for the purposes of getting high and/or for pleasure and not for the treatment of disease or illness or helping with of symptoms associated with disease or illness.

In this section we ask about personal understanding about use of marijuana and possible health risks.

PQ2

For each of the following age groups, please indicate how harmful or beneficial you think marijuana would be if taken occasionally (less than weekly). <[PHONE]You can answer with very harmful, somewhat harmful, no impact, somewhat beneficial, or very beneficial.>

Q2A

Adults over the age of 24
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q2B

Young Adults 19-24 years of age
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q2C

Teens between the ages of 13 and 18
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

PQ3

For your age group, please indicate how harmful or beneficial you think occasional use of marijuana (i.e. less than weekly) is to each of the following? <[PHONE]You can answer with very harmful, somewhat harmful, no impact, somewhat beneficial, or very beneficial.>

Q3A

Mental health
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q3B

Attention and memory
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q3C

Physical health
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q3D

Relationships with family and friends
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q3F

Performance at work or school
Very harmful 1
Somewhat harmful 2
No impact 3
Somewhat beneficial 4
Very beneficial 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q4A

How likely is occasional use of marijuana, that is less than weekly, to lead to addiction or dependence to marijuana? <[PHONE]You can answer with not at all likely, not very likely, moderately likely, likely or very likely.>
Not at all likely 1
Not very likely 2
Moderately likely 3
Likely 4
Very likely 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9 S

Q4B

How likely is frequent use of marijuana, that is daily or almost daily, to lead to addiction or dependence to marijuana? <[PHONE]You can answer with not at all likely, not very likely, moderately likely, likely or very likely.>
Not at all likely 1
Not very likely 2
Moderately likely 3
Likely 4
Very likely 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9 S

Q5 [1,10]

From what you know, please list the ways people can consume marijuana?
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
[PHONE]
Smoking in a joint/cigarette
1
[PHONE]
Smoking through a pipe or a water pipe/Bong
2
[PHONE]
Vaporizing by using a vapouriser
3
[PHONE]
Vaporising by using a vape pen
4
[PHONE]
Dabbing (e.g including hot knife/nail)
5
[PHONE]
Eating it (e.g. cooked into food)
6
[PHONE]
Putting it on skin (e.g. lotions, salves, balms. Applied directly to skin)
7
[PHONE]
Tinctures (e.g. concentrated amounts taken under the tongue or in beverages)
8
[PHONE]
Not familiar with how marijuana is used
9
Please specify : 77
Don't know 99 X

PQ6

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements. <[PHONE]You can answer with strongly disagree, somewhat disagree, neither agree nor disagree, somewhat agree or strongly agree.>

Q6A

I have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of marijuana use to make informed decisions.
Strongly disagree 1
Somewhat disagree 2
Neither agree nor disagree 3
Somewhat agree 4
Strongly agree 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q6B

Using marijuana impairs one's ability to drive or operate a vehicle.
Strongly disagree 1
Somewhat disagree 2
Neither agree nor disagree 3
Somewhat agree 4
Strongly agree 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q6C

It is expected that teenagers and young adults will try marijuana.
Strongly disagree 1
Somewhat disagree 2
Neither agree nor disagree 3
Somewhat agree 4
Strongly agree 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q6D

Using marijuana is socially acceptable.
Strongly disagree 1
Somewhat disagree 2
Neither agree nor disagree 3
Somewhat agree 4
Strongly agree 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q6G

Some methods of using marijuana, such as smoking it, pose greater health risks than other methods.
Strongly disagree 1
Somewhat disagree 2
Neither agree nor disagree 3
Somewhat agree 4
Strongly agree 5
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q8

Have you ever looked for information on the effects of using marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't know/ No opinion 9

Q9 [1,11]

Please list who you would be most likely to speak with for information on the health and safety risks of marijuana.
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
<[Youth]>
Your parents
6
<[Youth]Other family[ELSE]Family> 1
Friend 2
Doctors/health professional/nurse/hospital/health clinic 3
Law enforcement 4
Teachers/counsellors/social worker 5
<[Parents]>
Other parents
7
Please specify : 77 B
Don't know 98 BX
No response 99 BX

Q10 [1,10]

Please list who you would be most likely to speak with for information on marijuana impaired driving.
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
<[Youth]>
Your parents
6
<[Youth]Other family[ELSE]Family> 1
Friend 2
Doctors/health professional/nurse/hospital/health clinic 3
Law enforcement 4
Teachers/counsellors/social worker 5
<[Parents]>
Other parents
7
Please specify : 77 B
Don't know 98 BX
No response 99 BX

Q12 [1,12]

What information would you like to know about the risks and effects of marijuana?
Select all that apply <[PHONE]. Read each one and get yes/no for each.>
Risk of addiction 1
Health risks 2
Risks for youth and young adults 3
What physical/psychological effects happen when you use (e.g., what it feels like, what are the symptoms) 4
The risks of different types of products and ways to consume 5
Effects of combining marijuana with alcohol or other drugs 6
Effects of marijuana on driving 7
[Youth and parents]
How to talk with your <[Youth]parents[ELSE]teens> about marijuana
8
The law and penalties 9
Other (specify) : 77 B
I have no interest/need for information 98 XB
Don't know 99 XB

PQ12B

This following section is about marijuana use. Use includes smoking, inhaling, eating or applying products that contain marijuana.

Q12B

As far as you know, have people around you (e.g., friends or family) ever used marijuana?
Yes 1
No 3
No response 9

Q13

Have you ever used marijuana?
(Remember that the survey results are completely confidential and will not be linked to personal identity)
Yes 1
No 2
No response 9

Q14

If used marijuana, Q13
If... Q13 = 1

Have you used marijuana in the past 12 months?
Yes 1
No 2
No response 9

Q15

If used marijuana in the last 12 months, Q14
If... Q14 = 1

Over the past 12 months, how often have you used marijuana on average?
<[PHONE](Prompt as needed.)>
Daily 1
A few times a week 2
A few times a month 3
A few times a year 4
Less often than a few times a year 5
No response 9

Q16

Youth only, if used less than weekly, Q15
If... (AQAGE = 12-24 or QAGEY = 1-3) and Q13 = 1 and Q15 = 3,4,5,9

Over the past 12 months, how many times have you used marijuana?
<[PHONE](Prompt as needed.)>
Once 1
2-4 times 2
5-10 times 3
More than 10 times 4
No response 9

Q17 [1,12]

If used marijuana, Q13
If... Q13 = 1

What <[Q14 = 2,9]was[ELSE]is> your own personal reason for using marijuana?
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
[PHONE]
Curiosity
1
[PHONE]
I like the feeling
2
[PHONE]
It relaxes me (relieves stress/anxiety)
3
[PHONE]
It relieves boredom
4
[PHONE]
To be included/Because others (e.g., friends) use it (e.g., to be social, to be included)
5
[PHONE]
It helps me escape (e.g, forget problems)
6
[PHONE]
Pressured by others to use it
7
[PHONE]
Spiritual/discovery reasons
8
[PHONE]
Because I have a medical reason for using it
9
Please specify : 77
Don't know 98 X
No response 99 X

Q18

If used marijuana, Q13
If... Q13 = 1

How old were you when you first tried marijuana?
Please specify : 77 >
Don't recall/No response 99

Q19 [1,12]

If used marijuana, Q13
If... Q13 = 1

[PHONE]
How do you usually consume marijuana?
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
[PHONE]
Smoking in a joint/cigarette
1
[PHONE]
Smoking through a pipe or a water pipe/Bong
2
[PHONE]
Vaporizing by using a vapouriser
3
[PHONE]
Vaporising by using a vape pen
4
[PHONE]
Dabbing (e.g including hot knife/nail)
5
[PHONE]
Eating it (e.g. cooked into food)
6
[PHONE]
Putting it on skin (e.g. lotions, salves, balms. Applied directly to skin)
7
[PHONE]
Tinctures (e.g. concentrated amounts taken under the tongue or in beverages)
8
[PHONE]
Not familiar with how marijuana is used
9
Please specify : 77
No response 99 X

Q20 [1,8]

If used marijuana, Q13
If... Q13 = 1

Where <[Q14 = 2,9]did[ELSE]do> you get your marijuana? <[PHONE](Prompt as needed.)>
Select all that apply
From a friend(s) 1
From family 2
From someone who sells it (who isn't a "friend") 3
From a store that sells marijuana 4
Grow it myself 5
Somewhere else (specify) : 77
No response 99 X

Q21

If used marijuana, Q13 and age 16 or over, QAGE
If... Q13 = 1 and (AQAGE >= 16 or QAGEY >= 2)

Have you ever driven or operated a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't recall/No response 9

Q22

Have you ever been a passenger in a vehicle where the driver was under the influence of marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't recall/No response 9

Q24

How likely would you be to accept a ride from someone who you knew was under the influence of marijuana? <[PHONE]You can answer with not at all likely, not very likely, moderately likely, likely or very likely.>
Not at all likely 1
Not very likely 2
Moderately likely 3
Likely 4
Very likely 5
Don't know/ No response 9 S

Q23

As far as you know, when is it safe for <[Under 16]an older teen (i.e. 16 to 18 years of age)[ELSE]someone your age> to drive a vehicle after using marijuana? <[PHONE](Prompt as needed.)>
Right away 1
Within one hour 2
Within a couple of hours 3
At least three or more hours afterward 4
After a night of sleep 5
Whenever the person feels like the effect is gone 6
Other (specify) : 77
Don't know 98
No response 99

Q25

Is it legal to have, use or sell marijuana in Canada today for non-medical purposes?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't know 8
No response 9

Q26

If do not use marijuana, Q13, or have not used marijuana, past 12 months, Q14
If... Q13 = 2,9 or Q14 = 2,9

When legalized in Canada how likely would you be to <[Q14 = 2,9]use[ELSE]try> marijuana? <[PHONE]You can answer with not at all likely, not very likely, moderately likely, likely or very likely.>
Not at all likely 1
Not very likely 2
Moderately likely 3
Likely 4
Very likely 5
Don't know 8 S
No response 9 S

Q29

Parents of children 13-18 and teens 13-18 only
If... QCHILDA = 3,4 or AQAGE = 12-18 or QAGEY = 1-2

Have you discussed marijuana use with your <[Teen 13-18]parent(s)?[ELSE]teenager(s)?>
Yes 1
No 2
Don't recall/No response 9

Q30 [1,15]

Parents of children 13-18 and teens 13-18 only and Have discussed marijuana, Q29
If... (QCHILDA = 3,4 or AQAGE = 12-18 or QAGEY = 1-2) and Q29 = 1

With respect to marijuana, what have you discussed with your <[Teens 13-18]parent(s)?[ELSE]teenager(s)?>
<[PHONE]Do not read list>
[PHONE]
Marijuana has health and safety, and social risks
1
[PHONE]
Using marijuana doesn't solve problems
2
[PHONE]
Discussed self/peers/family doing marijuana
3
[PHONE]
A show/news/book about marijuana use
4
[PHONE]
Just say no / stay away from marijuana
5
[PHONE]
Saw /heard about drugs in school / at a social function
6
[PHONE]
Discussed health issues / effects of marijuana on the body
7
[PHONE]
Discussed reputation risks
8
[PHONE]
Legal consequences of marijuana
9
[PHONE]
Discussed effects of marijuana use on driving
10
[PHONE]
Discussed accepting a ride with a driver who was under the influence of marijuana
11
[PHONE]
Discussed addictive nature
12
[PHONE]
Leads to other drugs
13
[PHONE]
Peer pressure
14
Please specify : 77
Don't recall/No response 99 X

Q31

Parents of children 13+ only
If... QCHILDA = 3,4,5

As far as you know, has your teenager ever used marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't know 8
No response 9

Q32

Parents of kids 16 or older
If... QCHILDA = 4,5

As far as you know, has your teenager ever driven a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't know 8
No response 9

Q33

Parents of children 13+ only
If... QCHILDA = 3,4,5

As far as you know has your teenager ever accepted a ride with a driver who was under the influence of marijuana?
Yes 1
No 2
Don't know 8
No response 9

DEMIN

These last questions are for statistical purposes and we remind you that all your answers are completely confidential.

D1

If 16 or older
If... AQAGE >= 16 or AQAGE is empty

Which of the following categories best describes your current employment status? Are you...?
Working full-time (35 or more hours per week) 1
Working part-time (less than 35 hours per week) 2
Self-employed 3
Student attending full time school (not working) 4
Unemployed, but looking for work 5
Not in the workforce (e.g. unemployed, but not looking for work, a full-time homemaker or parent) 6
Retired 7
Other 77
No response 99

D2

What is the highest level of formal education that you have completed to date?
Grade 8 or less 1
Some high school 2
High school diploma or equivalent 3
Registered Apprenticeship or other trades certificate or diploma 4
College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma 5
University certificate or diploma below bachelors level 6
Bachelor's degree 7
Post graduate degree above bachelor's level 8
No response 9

D5

If 19 or older
If... AQAGE >= 19 or AQAGE is empty

Which of the following categories best describes your total household income? That is, the total income of all persons in your household, before taxes?
Under $20,000 1
$20,000 to just under $40,000 2
$40,000 to just under $60,000 3
$60,000 to just under $80,000 4
$80,000 to just under $100,000 5
$100,000 to just under $120,000 6
$120,000 to just under $150,000 7
$150,000 and above 8
No response 9

D6

Were you born in Canada?
Yes 1
No 2
No response 9

D6B

Outside Canada, D6
If... D6 = 2

How many years have you lived in Canada?
Less than 5 years 1
5 9 years 2
10 19 years 3
20 29 years 4
30 or more years 5
No response 9

D6E [1,9]

Which of the following best describes your ethnic heritage?
(select all that apply)
White/European (for example, German, Irish, English, Italian, French, Polish, etc.) 1
Hispanic, Latino, Spanish (for example, Mexican, Cuban, Salvadoran, Columbian, etc.) 2
Black or African American (for example, African American, Jamaican, Haitian, Nigerian, Ethiopian, etc.) 3
East Asian (for example, Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, etc.) 4
South Asian (for example, East Indian, Pakistani, etc.) 5
Middle Eastern or North African (for example, Lebanese, Iranian, Syrian, Moroccan, Algerian, etc.) 6
Aboriginal 7
Other (please specify) 77
No response 99 X

D7 [1,5]

What is the language you speak most often at home?
(select all that apply)
English 1
French 2
Other (please specify) 77
No response 99 X
ARABIC 3 I
SPANISH 4 I

D8

What are the first 3 digits of your postal code?
Please specify : 1
No response 9

QGENDR

<[PHONE]DO NOT ASK - INTERVIEWER RECORD GENDER[ELSE]Are you...?>
Male 1
Female 2
Other 3
No response 9

THNK

Those are all the questions we have for you. Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey, it is greatly appreciated.

Appendix B

Call Outcome and Response Rate - Telephone Sample

Call Outcomes and Response Rate Calculation (Telephone Sample)
Final disposition   # Totals
Initial Sample     13,725
A Invalid numbers     1,334
  BC - Blocked by Bell 199  
  BU - Business/Fax /Modem 98  
  NF - Invalid Number 1,037  
B Unresolved     8,968
  AM - Callback in 2 hrs 6,905  
  AP - Callback - Specific time/date 136  
  IC - Incomplete Callback 7  
  NA - Callback in 12 hrs 1,920  
D Ineligible     1,428
  IG - Ineligible 951  
  LN - Language Barrier 64  
  QF - Quota Filled 413  
E Non-responding, eligible     1,220
  IR - Incomplete Refusals 32  
  RF - Refusal 1,170  
  UN - Unavailable within Project Timeframe 18  
F Completed interviews     775
  Complete 775  
TOTALS   13,733 13,733

1
Chi-square and standard t-tests were applied as applicable. Differences noted were significant at the 95 per cent level.
2
Ivar Krumpal, "Determinants of Social Desirability Bias in Sensitive Surveys: A Literature Review", Quality and Quantity, June 2013, Volume 47, Issue 4, pp. 2025-2047.
4
This result is largely driven by older teens. There are too few younger teens responding to questions about marijuana use to reliably determine differences among younger and older teens.
5
Note that 284 respondents who had tried marijuana, but not in the last 12 months were not included in the results, as the branching logic was changed after the first few days of data collection, to include those who had previous, but not recently tried marijuana.
6
Note that there is overlap between parents of youth and parents of young adults, with 123 parents recorded in both categories.
7
No total is reported for youth and parents of youth, which were treated as separate segments.