Association between affect and cannabis use varies by social context

Cannabis use is rising globally, underscoring the importance of understanding contextual factors related to cannabis use. Although much work has retrospectively examined cannabis use patterns and effects, fewer studies have evaluated cannabis use in natural environments. The present study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine the subjective experience of cannabis use (i.e., positive and negative affect) and how cannabis’ mood effects are modified by the social context, defined as being alone or with others, in which use occurs. Associations between cannabis’ mood effects and cannabis use disorder symptomatology were additionally examined. Participants (N = 200) completed baseline assessments and two 7-day waves of EMA data collection. Mixed-effects models examined between- and within-subject effects for positive and negative affect at cannabis use and nonuse times and interactions between cannabis use and social context. Positive affect was elevated at cannabis use times, compared to nonuse times, regardless of social context. The relationship between cannabis use and negative affect was moderated by social context, such that negative affect was elevated at cannabis use times when participants were alone and reduced at cannabis use times when participants were with others. Higher levels of cannabis use disorder symptomatology and cannabis use frequency were both associated with lower negative affect at cannabis use times. These results suggest that elevated positive affect is consistent across cannabis use times regardless of social context, but negative affect may vary more by the presence of others. •Positive affect is elevated at cannabis use times regardless of social context.•Negative affect is reduced at cannabis use times when individuals are with others.•Negative affect is elevated at cannabis use times when individuals are alone.•Higher cannabis use disorder symptoms related to less negative affect at use times.