Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have grown in popularity among young adults in recent years. These products typically contain nicotine but a growing number of studies is showing that people are using these devices to inhale substances other than nicotine such as cannabinoids, methamphetamines, MDMA, other amphetamines, cocaine, and heroin. Cannabis appears to be the most popular substance vaped with around 29% of college students reporting lifetime use. This may be due to the common misconception that vaping is not as harmful as traditional methods of smoking. However, vaping has been associated with pulmonary illness and lung injury. This study examines the attitudes and perceptions of college students who vaporize cannabis.
The study’s sample consisted of 21 undergraduate college students who reported vaping cannabis in the past 30 days. Participants completed a phone interview that assessed attitudes and perceptions of cannabis vaporizer use. Perceptions of the health risks associated with vaping cannabis were also addressed. Transcriptions from the interviews were coded using a thematic analysis framework. Transcriptions were then analyzed using an inductive coding process to identify and label themes and subthemes related to cannabis vaping among college student.
Through the data analysis six major themes were identified: convenience, discreetness, mood-altering experience, social acceptability, health and safety, and COVID-19 pandemic impact. In regards to convenience, common subthemes that were identified were portability, ease of use, instant gratification, and the ability to control what and how much consumed. Low odor and deception were the two subthemes identified related to discreetness. Many of the participants reported vaping cannabis to get a “head high,” “body high,” or to focus on school work. In regards to social acceptability, participants identified that the type of cannabis used (smoking, vaping, edibles) often differed based on the social environment. Students also described vaping as “smoother,” “cleaner,” and “more holistic” Some participants reported that vaping had a positive impact on their mental health while seven participants expressed negative effects associated with vaping such as memory loss and paranoia. Lastly, many participants reported that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted their cannabis use.
Takeaway: Examining attitudes and perceptions of college students regarding cannabis vaping revealed six primary themes: convenience, discreetness, mood-altering experience, social acceptability, health and safety, and COVID-19 pandemic impact.