Self-Medication or Self-Sabotage?: Marijuana and ADHD: An Investigation in Long-Term Outcomes on Symptom Severity and Cognitive Functioning
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Authors
Irnie, Stephanie
Issue Date
2025
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
ADHD , cannabis , marijuana , cognitive functioning , executive functioning , self-medication hypothesis , emotional regulation , impulsivity , alternative ADHD treatment , longitudinal study , mixed-methods research
Alternative Title
Abstract
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impact daily functioning. While stimulant and non-stimulant medications remain the primary treatments, these options present challenges, including adverse side effects, inconsistent adherence, and limited long-term efficacy. Increasingly, individuals with ADHD report using cannabis as an alternative treatment, citing perceived benefits such as improved focus, emotional regulation, and reduced hyperactivity. However, empirical research raises concerns that chronic cannabis use may exacerbate cognitive deficits, emotional dysregulation, and risk for cannabis use disorder (CUD), particularly among adolescents and young adults. This capstone critically evaluates the long-term impact of cannabis use on ADHD symptom management and cognitive functioning. Guided by the Self-Medication Hypothesis, the proposed longitudinal mixed-methods study examines whether cannabis functions as an adaptive coping strategy or a maladaptive behavior that worsens impairment over time. Quantitative measures include standardized ADHD symptom scales and cognitive performance tests, while qualitative interviews capture lived experiences, motivations for use, and perceived outcomes. Findings from this research aim to clarify the balance between perceived short-term benefits and documented long-term risks of cannabis use in ADHD populations. By integrating subjective and empirical evidence, this study seeks to inform clinical practice, guide public health policy, and contribute to the development of evidence-based recommendations for ADHD treatment. Ultimately, the research addresses whether cannabis use represents self-medication or self-sabotage for individuals with ADHD.
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Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess