Addict Behav [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
From active users to passive watchers: Profiles of TikTok engagement and mental health predictors.
Chen J, Yao N, Elhai JD
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41232268 · Publisher ↗
Prior studies suggest that TikTok users vary in their engagement behaviors, including passive viewing, participatory interaction, and content creation, and exhibit varying levels of problematic-use risk. Yet it remains u...
Prior studies suggest that TikTok users vary in their engagement behaviors, including passive viewing, participatory interaction, and content creation, and exhibit varying levels of problematic-use risk. Yet it remains unclear which combinations of these engagement behaviors correspond to higher versus lower risk, and which psychological vulnerabilities contribute to high-risk patterns. In a two-wave study of 715 Chinese young adults, we applied latent profile analysis (LPA) to problematic TikTok use and the frequency of passive viewing, participatory, and contributory behaviors at Time 2. We then used multinomial logistic regression with the three-step method to prospectively examine how Time 1 measures of psychopathology and related affective/cognitive vulnerabilities, including depression, social anxiety, life satisfaction, emotion dysregulation, and boredom proneness, predicted TikTok profile membership. Four profiles emerged: Minimal Users (6.7%), Passive Watchers with High Problematic Use Tendencies (38.0%), Moderate Users with Mild Problematic Use Tendencies (42.4%), and Active Users with Low Problematic Use Tendencies (12.9%). Greater life satisfaction, lower social anxiety, and lower boredom proneness at baseline predicted membership in the Active rather than Passive, Moderate, or Minimal profiles. Greater emotion dysregulation predicted membership in the Passive rather than Moderate profile. These findings highlight substantial heterogeneity in TikTok use and suggest that higher baseline psychological wellbeing may increase the likelihood of more active and less problematic patterns of engagement. The current study extends prior LPA research by specifying how risk manifests in everyday use, identifying contributors to high-risk profiles, and extending empirical support for the I-PACE theoretical framework of Internet use disorders.
Meta-inner humor beliefs and problematic social media use: A six-month longitudinal test of metacognitive pathways.
Akbari M, Seydavi M, Griffiths MD
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41223604 · Publisher ↗
No previous studies have ever examined humor as a diffusion strategy in the context of technology use. The present study is the first to investigate whether meta-inner humor beliefs (MIHBs) are prospectively associated w...
No previous studies have ever examined humor as a diffusion strategy in the context of technology use. The present study is the first to investigate whether meta-inner humor beliefs (MIHBs) are prospectively associated with problematic social media use (PSMU) via metacognitions about social media use. A prospective, two-wave longitudinal design with a bidirectional cross-lagged panel (CLPA) model was used to examine associations between adaptive and maladaptive MIHBs on PSMU, examining the indirect pathway of positive and negative metacognitions about social media use (meta-SMUs). The study was conducted across two waves at a six-month interval. At Wave 1, a large community sample (N = 1,253; 58.2 % females; age = 36.8 years [SD ± 14.1]) participated in the study, and at Wave 2, 78.1 % of the starting sample completed the follow-up assessment. Results from the bidirectional CLPA showed that adaptive MIHBs at Wave 1 were significantly associated with lower negative and positive meta-SMUs at Wave 2. In contrast, maladaptive MIHBs were only associated with higher negative meta-SMUs at Wave 2. Also, negative meta-SMUs predicted an increase in PSMU six months later, whereas it was non-significant for positive meta-SMUs. Analyses of bidirectional indirect pathways demonstrated that adaptive MIHBs were indirectly related to lower PSMU through reduced negative metacognitions, while maladaptive MIHBs were indirectly related to higher PSMU through elevated negative metacognitions. Multi-group analyses established full longitudinal measurement and structural invariance across gender. The findings underscore the potential role of humor-related metacognitive pathways in the maintenance of PSMU, suggesting that humor-based psychotherapeutic approaches warrant further investigation.
Clinical outcomes of addictive disorders six months after ADHD Diagnosis: Insights from the START study.
Begnaud A, Cabelguen C, Challet-Bouju G … +3 more , Leboucher J, Schreck B, Grall-Bronnec M
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41218347 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is overrepresented in patients with addictive disorders but remains underdiagnosed. This comorbidity complicates clinical presentations and worsens prognosis....
INTRODUCTION: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is overrepresented in patients with addictive disorders but remains underdiagnosed. This comorbidity complicates clinical presentations and worsens prognosis. We aimed to evaluate addictive disorder outcomes six months after ADHD diagnosis in patients undergoing addiction treatment and to identify factors associated with a favorable outcome. Secondary objectives explored patient characteristics and therapeutic strategies. METHOD: The START study (Study on the Treatment of ADHD and addiction comorbidity: a ReTrospective analysis of medical records) was an observational, retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from patients recently diagnosed with ADHD using the DIVA. Included patients had either substance use disorders (SUD) or behavioral addictions (eating, sex, gambling, gaming/screen use, shopping, and physical exercise), with diagnoses established by the referring physician according to clinical judgment, and attended at least two consultations six months apart. Descriptive analyses were conducted for the total sample and by clinical outcome, followed by multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of improvement. RESULTS: Tobacco and cannabis use disorders were the most common (61.3 % each). Psychiatric comorbidities were frequent (lifetime 84.6 %, current 34.1 %). Methylphenidate initiation was delayed in 29 % of cases, primarily due to current psychiatric comorbidities or ongoing addiction. Improvement in addictive disorders was observed in 61.3 % of patients. Favorable outcomes were associated with older age (OR = 1.13, 95 % CI [1.04-1.23], p = 0.006) and living as a couple (OR = 3.84, 95 % CI [1.10-13.42], p = 0.035), whereas poorer outcomes were associated with the ADHD combined presentation (reference group), compared with the predominantly inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations (OR = 0.16, 95 % CI [0.03-0.90], p = 0.037). CONCLUSION: The study highlights socio-demographic and clinical predictors of outcome, advancing our understanding of ADHD-addiction comorbidity. Findings warrant confirmation in prospective longitudinal research.
Medication for opioid use disorder among adolescents entering specialty treatment for opioid use disorder and trends in the US, 2017-2022.
Boggis JS, Sweeney T, Marsch LA … +3 more , Marrero WJ, Feder KA, Moen EL
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41202482 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Professional societies recommend that adolescents with opioid use disorder (OUD) receive medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This cross-sectional study examined the association between adolescent speci...
BACKGROUND: Professional societies recommend that adolescents with opioid use disorder (OUD) receive medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This cross-sectional study examined the association between adolescent specialty treatment episodes for OUD with planned MOUD use compared to adults over time. METHODS: We used data on first episodes of specialty treatment for OUD (n = 671,183) from the Treatment Episode Data Set - Admissions, a national database of publicly funded treatment programs in the US Admissions occurred between 1/2017-12/2022. The primary exposure was being adolescent (15-17 years). The main outcome was planned MOUD use, defined as having MOUD in a treatment plan. RESULTS: Adolescent specialty treatment episodes for OUD were significantly less likely to have planned MOUD use than adults (aOR 0.05, 95% CI, 0.02-0.09). Linear combination tests of the interaction between age group and year confirmed that adolescent episodes were significantly less likely to have planned MOUD use than adults across all years. In 2021 and 2022 this disparity narrowed slightly. In 2021, adolescent episodes had 10% of the adjusted odds of planned MOUD use compared to adults in 2017 (95% CI, 0.07-0.15). In 2022, adolescent episodes had 9% of the adjusted odds of planned MOUD use compared to adults in 2017 (95% CI, 0.06-0.11). CONCLUSION: Adolescents entering specialty treatment for OUD had significantly lower odds of planned MOUD use than adults. The relatively smaller difference between adolescents and adults in recent years suggests a potential trend toward greater MOUD access, though future research is needed to understand access barriers.
How daily alternative behaviors' expected value shapes problematic smartphone use? An ecological momentary assessment study.
Qi H, Li J, Wang J … +3 more , Li M, Chen X, Luo Y
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41187646 · Publisher ↗
With the global rise in smartphone use, problematic smartphone use (PSU) has emerged as a critical mental health concern. While reinforcement pathology theory posits that a high expected value of alternative behaviors (E...
With the global rise in smartphone use, problematic smartphone use (PSU) has emerged as a critical mental health concern. While reinforcement pathology theory posits that a high expected value of alternative behaviors (EVAB; e.g., psychological rewards from social or physical activities) may mitigate addictive tendencies, no prior study has examined this hypothesis in daily life contexts. This study is the first to investigate the within-person dynamics of EVAB on PSU and its underlying mechanisms. Using ecological momentary assessment (EMA), 72 participants (M = 19.01 ± 0.93 years; 40 females) completed baseline measures of episodic future thinking (EFT) followed by 14 days of intensive longitudinal data collection (three daily reports), assessing EVAB, delay discounting, PSU, and screen time. Dynamic structural equation modeling (DSEM) revealed two key findings: First, momentary increases in EVAB predicted subsequent reductions in both PSU levels and screen time, mediated by decreased delay discounting (β = -0.032, HPD 95 % CI = [-0.051, -0.014]). Second, individual differences in EFT detail/vividness and mental imagery positively predicted daily EVAB, which in turn reduced PSU via lower delay discounting (β = -0.015, HPD 95 % CI = [-0.026, -0.006]; β = -0.012, HPD 95 % CI = [-0.022, -0.004]). These results provide the first empirical support for core hypotheses of reinforcement pathology theory in PSU research, elucidating the dynamic role of EVAB while offering novel theoretical and clinical insights. The findings emphasize that PSU interventions should target both within-person fluctuations in reinforcement valuation and between-person differences in future-oriented cognition.
Exploring adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among those seeking treatment for gambling problems: A mixed-methods study.
Moxey M, Dennie E, Rossi R … +2 more , Sallis H, Herbert A
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41187645 · Publisher ↗
STUDY OVERVIEW: This mixed-methods study explores the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and gambling-related harm among individuals seeking treatment in the UK. METHODOLOGY: Drawing on survey data...
STUDY OVERVIEW: This mixed-methods study explores the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and gambling-related harm among individuals seeking treatment in the UK. METHODOLOGY: Drawing on survey data from 195 clients across two treatment providers and in-depth interviews with ten participants, the study investigates the prevalence of ACEs, perceived links to gambling behaviour, and treatment experiences. FINDINGS: Quantitative findings revealed that 81.1 % of treatment-seekers reported at least one ACE, and 40.5 % reported four or more - five times higher than national population estimates. Women reported significantly higher proportions of ACE exposure than men, particularly in relation to emotional and sexual abuse. Participants with the most severe gambling problems also had the highest ACE prevalence. Qualitative interviews highlighted three key themes: intergenerational transmission of addiction, gambling as a form of emotional regulation, and mixed experiences of treatment. Some participants described gambling as a way to escape distress rooted in childhood trauma, while others expressed the importance of trauma-informed, person-centred counselling. IMPLICATIONS: Overall, the findings suggest that ACEs are highly relevant to the development and treatment of gambling harm. We argue for routine ACE screening in gambling treatment services and call for more consistent integration of trauma-informed care to better support recovery among those with complex needs.
Disconnected emotions, connected behaviors: Symptom network features of problematic mobile phone use across different alexithymia profiles.
Gu J, Xiao W, Li X … +1 more , Liang H
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41187644 · Publisher ↗
Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) has been associated with individual-level psychological traits, notably alexithymia-a personality construct characterized by difficulty identifying and describing emotions, and a tende...
Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) has been associated with individual-level psychological traits, notably alexithymia-a personality construct characterized by difficulty identifying and describing emotions, and a tendency toward externally oriented thinking. However, the heterogeneity of alexithymia in relation to PMPU remains insufficiently explored. In this study, 2345 university students completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Mobile Phone Addiction Index. Latent profile analysis identified four distinct alexithymia subtypes: Healthy Expression, Typical Alexithymia, Mild Emotional Processing Difficulties, and High Externally Oriented Thinking. Within each subgroup, psychological network analysis was used to examine the structural interconnections of PMPU symptoms. Core PMPU symptoms varied across profiles, with distraction, inability to reduce use, and feeling lost without the phone emerging as central nodes in most networks. Bridge symptoms linking emotional and behavioral dimensions also differed by profile. Network comparison tests revealed significant differences in overall structure and connectivity between groups. These findings underscore the complexity and heterogeneity of emotional processing mechanisms in PMPU and suggest the value of personalized, profile-specific intervention strategies.
Sexual diversity, adolescent mental health, and adult cannabis use: Longitudinal associations through cannabis use motives.
London-Nadeau K, Pocuca N, Rioux C … +8 more , Chadi N, Côté SM, Fallu JS, Geoffroy MC, Huynh C, Juster RP, Séguin JR, Castellanos-Ryan N
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41175609 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: We examined prospective pathways between adolescent mental health and early adulthood cannabis use (CU) by sexual diversity, and the potential explanatory role of CU motives, accounting for confounders (demograp...
PURPOSE: We examined prospective pathways between adolescent mental health and early adulthood cannabis use (CU) by sexual diversity, and the potential explanatory role of CU motives, accounting for confounders (demographics, CU frequency in adolescence). METHODS: Participants from the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development self-reported at 17 years on depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and CU frequency, and at 23 years on CU motives, frequency and problems (471 participants total; 425 heterosexual; 46 sexually diverse). RESULTS: Depression - but not anxiety - symptoms at 17 years predicted CU problems at 23 years among sexually diverse participants only. This association was fully explained through coping motives, which were strongly predicted by depression symptoms in sexually diverse youth. While coping motives also predicted CU problems in heterosexual participants, coping motives were not predicted by mental health at 17 in this group. Depression symptoms at 17 also predicted social motives for CU among sexually diverse participants only, but this was not associated with CU frequency and problems. Finally, enhancement motives predicted CU problems at 23 years in both heterosexual and sexually diverse participants, but were not predicted by mental health at 17 years. CONCLUSIONS: Among sexually diverse youth, depression symptoms in adolescence may confer particular risk for later CU problems through CU for coping purposes. Increasing coping resources for sexually diverse adolescents experiencing psychological distress could help prevent later CU problems.
Longitudinal bidirectional relations between perceived stress and Internet gaming disorder among adolescents: The mediating role of depressive symptoms.
Li X, Luo L, Zhao Y … +5 more , Yang C, Zhang Y, Zhou Z, Xiong G, Li W
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41172722 · Publisher ↗
Perceived stress is considered a significant risk factor for Internet gaming disorder (IGD). However, the longitudinal dynamics and the underlying mechanisms of this relation remain underexplored. Drawing on the Compensa...
Perceived stress is considered a significant risk factor for Internet gaming disorder (IGD). However, the longitudinal dynamics and the underlying mechanisms of this relation remain underexplored. Drawing on the Compensatory Internet Use Theory, this study examined the mediating role of depressive symptoms in the longitudinal relation between perceived stress and IGD among adolescents. A total of 1567 Chinese adolescents (44.9 % boys; M = 15.41, SD = 0.51 at baseline) participated in a three-wave longitudinal study with a six-month interval. Cross-lagged panel modeling revealed that: (a) significant bidirectional relations were observed between perceived stress and depressive symptoms (βs ranged from 0.19 to 0.22, ps < 0.001); (b) depressive symptoms positively predicted subsequent IGD (βs ranged from 0.14 to 0.16, ps < 0.001); and (c) depressive symptoms mediated the relation between perceived stress and IGD (indirect effect = 0.032, 95 % CI [0.007, 0.062]). These findings highlight the critical role of depressive symptoms in the progression from perceived stress to IGD. Addressing depressive symptoms may be crucial for preventing and intervening with adolescent IGD.
Measuring cannabis use and cannabis-related consequences among college students who engage in simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use: Associations by type of cannabis product and mode of use on weekend days with cannabis.
Shipley JL, Chiang SC, Linden-Carmichael AN
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41172721 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Patterning of cannabis use behavior is evolving as legalization of recreational use increases across the US, with rates highest among young adults. Modalities (e.g., vaping) for using cannabis are increasin...
INTRODUCTION: Patterning of cannabis use behavior is evolving as legalization of recreational use increases across the US, with rates highest among young adults. Modalities (e.g., vaping) for using cannabis are increasing in prevalence. Importantly, certain types (e.g., cannabis concentrates) and modes (e.g., bong use) of cannabis are associated with increased cannabis-related risks. Previous research in young adult samples has predominately used cross-sectional studies, limiting our understanding of within-individual differences in use behaviors and outcomes. The current study aimed to describe the type and modes of cannabis used and to examine within-individual differences in number of hits and negative consequences by type and mode of cannabis use. METHODS: Participants (n = 88) were current college students, ages 18-25 years (M = 20.49, SD = 1.22) who endorsed weekly simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use and enrolled in a 4-weekend ecological momentary assessment study. Cannabis use behavior (type, mode, number of hits, and substance use consequences) was assessed during each morning prompt. RESULTS: Plant was the most endorsed type of cannabis used and bongs were the most endorsed mode used. Multilevel models revealed that participants reported more hits on days when they used a joint, vape, blunt, or other modes of use compared to bong use and greater odds of experiencing negative consequences on days when they used a joint or blunt, compared to bong use. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that select modes are linked with heavier use and more consequences. Findings may be used to inform just-in-time interventions that target higher-risk cannabis use and select cannabis use behaviors.
Youth cannabis and alcohol use expectancies mediate associations between pre-adolescent cognitive function and subsequent use initiation.
Jones SK, Tomko R, Ramer N … +1 more , Wolf BJ
Addict Behav · 2026 Feb · PMID 41172720 · Publisher ↗
Youth substance use increases risk for developing substance use disorders. Previous work using the longitudinal ABCD Study® found distinct neurocognitive factors contribute to youth tobacco and alcohol initiation. Using...
Youth substance use increases risk for developing substance use disorders. Previous work using the longitudinal ABCD Study® found distinct neurocognitive factors contribute to youth tobacco and alcohol initiation. Using data for 7776 ABCD Study® participants, this study expands prior work to examine prospective associations between early neurocognitive factors (general ability, executive function, learning and memory, and visuospatial and mental rotation) at ages 9-10 years (sample enrolled 2016-2018) and cannabis use by ages 13-14 years. We also test whether positive and negative tobacco smoking, alcohol, and cannabis expectancies mediate associations between neurocognitive factors and substance use initiation. Higher performance in general ability was associated with increased risk [OR = 1.23, 95 % CI 1.07-1.42] for cannabis use; positive cannabis expectancies mediated 72.6 % (p-value = 0.003) of the effect [Indirect effect: OR = 1.16, 95 % CI 1.12-1.20] and negative expectancies mediated -10.2 % (p-value = 0.04) of the effect [Indirect effect: OR = 0.98, 95 % CI 0.97-0.99]. Accuracy in visuospatial reasoning was protective [OR = 0.83, 95 % CI 0.73-0.95)] for cannabis use; the effect was not mediated by expectancies. Positive alcohol use expectancy mediated 36.3 % of the association between general ability and early alcohol use [OR = 1.15, 95 % CI 1.05-1.25; Indirect effect: OR = 1.05, 95 % CI 1.03-1.07]. Associations with early tobacco use were independent of tobacco expectancies. Developmentally appropriate expectancy-based interventions lowering positive expectancies and bolstering negative expectancies may be effective for preventing youth cannabis initiation. Interventions lowering positive alcohol expectancies may help prevent youth alcohol use.
Does emotional distress tolerance negatively predict problematic smartphone use or vice versa? Evidence from a longitudinal study and a daily diary study.
Chen S, Yang L, Qu Y … +1 more , Zhou N
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41167017 · Publisher ↗
Low emotional distress tolerance (EDT) is a risk factor for problematic smartphone use (PSU). While theoretical and preliminary empirical considerations suggest that PSU may impair EDT, no studies have directly examined...
Low emotional distress tolerance (EDT) is a risk factor for problematic smartphone use (PSU). While theoretical and preliminary empirical considerations suggest that PSU may impair EDT, no studies have directly examined their bidirectional relationship. To address this gap, in this research, the bidirectional relationship between PSU and EDT is investigated through two studies among young adults. Study 1 employed a two-wave longitudinal design. A total of 901 young adults (61.7 % women) completed questionnaires three months apart. A cross-lagged regression analysis revealed a significant bidirectional predictive relationship between EDT and PSU. Study 2 used a daily diary design (N = 77; 39.0 % women) to examine the day-to-day directional relationship between EDT and PSU. Participants completed daily assessments over 14 consecutive days. Multilevel linear models with time lag analyses indicated that PSU predicted next-day EDT, whereas EDT did not predict next-day PSU. Study 1 revealed a reciprocal negative association between EDT and PSU, offering empirical support for Compensatory Internet Use Theory (CIUT) and the reinforcing cycle of the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model. Moreover, on a daily timescale, only PSU was found to predict next-day EDT. These findings have implications for interventions aiming to break the cycle between PSU and low EDT.
The association between cannabis use and cardiovascular outcomes among U.S. Adults, 2020-2023.
Sun R, Judd SE, De PK
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41151132 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The effect of cannabis use on cardiovascular disease is mixed in the literature. This study assessed the association between cannabis use and multiple cardiovascular outcomes using recent national data from th...
OBJECTIVE: The effect of cannabis use on cardiovascular disease is mixed in the literature. This study assessed the association between cannabis use and multiple cardiovascular outcomes using recent national data from the U.S. Potential heterogenous effects by age and sex were also examined. METHODS: Using a national sample of 436,949 adults who were interviewed between 2020 and 2023 in BRFSS, we employed multivariable logistic regressions to determine the association between cannabis use and cardiovascular health outcomes, adjusting for sociodemographics, health status, other substance use behaviors, and state-level cannabis laws. State and year fixed effects were also included to adjust for time-invariant state characters and trends in cardiovascular outcomes. RESULTS: The weighted prevalence was 4.4 % for coronary heart disease, 4.5 % for myocardial infarction, 3.6 % for stroke, and 9.3 % for the composite measure of any cardiovascular outcome. Non-daily cannabis use, compared to no cannabis use in the past 30 days, was associated with increased odds of stroke (aOR = 1.28, 95 % CI, 1.06-1.54) and the composite measure (aOR = 1.16, 95 % CI, 1.03-1.29). Daily cannabis use was also associated with increased odds of stroke and the composite measure, with aORs at 1.29 (95 % CI, 1.07-1.54) and 1.20 (95 % CI, 1.06-1.36), respectively. Subgroup analyses revealed that cannabis use was associated with more cardiovascular outcomes among middle-aged adults and females. CONCLUSIONS: We found cannabis use to be associated with increased odds of several cardiovascular outcomes. Some population groups who use cannabis, such as middle-aged adults and females, may be at higher cardiovascular risk.
Growing Concerns: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis of cannabis use and mental health risks in youth.
Sanz-Pérez A, Serrano DR, Fraguas-Sánchez AI … +5 more , Pardo MC, Sánchez de León JMR, Estupiñá FJ, Pérez T, González-Burgos E
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41145103 · Publisher ↗
Cannabis is the most widely consumed illicit drug globally. In 2021, 46 % of countries identified cannabis as the predominant substance associated with drug abuse disorders, with 34 % indicating it as the primary cause f...
Cannabis is the most widely consumed illicit drug globally. In 2021, 46 % of countries identified cannabis as the predominant substance associated with drug abuse disorders, with 34 % indicating it as the primary cause for seeking treatment. Young individuals represent the largest consumer demographic, experiencing substantial negative health effects. Despite extensive research on its mental health impacts, many aspects remain unclear. This study examines cannabis use among young people including anxiety, depression, and suicidal behavior. Studies involving individuals aged 15-30 were included. Data sources included PubMed, Mendeley, Embase, WOS, CINAHL, and Scopus. After screening 6466 articles, 36 met the inclusion criteria, with 18 included in the meta-analysis. These studies were published between 2013 and 2025. The results indicated that the odds of depression were 51 % higher in young cannabis users (OR = 1.51, 95 %CI = 1.23-1.86), decreasing to 28 % after adjustment (aOR = 1.28, 95 %CI = 1.10-1.50). Anxiety showed a 58 % increase (OR = 1.58, 95 %CI = 1.15-2.15). For suicidal ideation, the increase ranged from 50 % in unadjusted models (OR = 1.50, 95 %CI = 1.05-2.14) to 65 % in adjusted models (aOR = 1.65 95 %CI = 1.40-1.93). Finally, the odds of suicide attempt were 87 % higher (OR = 1.87, 95 %CI = 1.25-2.80), remaining elevated at 80 % after adjustment (aOR = 1.80, 95 %CI = 1.30-2.49).
Experiential avoidance as a prospective mediator of the relationship between problematic smartphone use and autistic traits, theory of mind: Temporal mediation models.
Gerdan G, Akgül Ö, Gürlük YO
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41135125 · Publisher ↗
The increasing use of smartphones has raised concerns about adverse psychological and social-cognitive outcomes among young people. This study aimed to prospectively examine the relationships between problematic smartpho...
The increasing use of smartphones has raised concerns about adverse psychological and social-cognitive outcomes among young people. This study aimed to prospectively examine the relationships between problematic smartphone use (PSU), experiential avoidance (EA), screen time, autistic traits (ATs), and theory of mind (ToM), and to test the mediating role of EA within a temporal design. Data were collected prospectively from 219 young adults (aged 18-35; M = 20.66, SD = 2.15) across three measurement points at one-week intervals. At Time 1 (T1), participants reported their weekly screen time and completed baseline measures of PSU, ATs, and ToM. At Time 2 (T2), the measure of EA was administered. At Time 3 (T3), final measures of ATs and ToM were administered. The results indicated that higher levels of PSU at T1 prospectively predicted an increase in EA at T2, which in turn prospectively predicted higher levels of ATs and lower levels of ToM at T3. Similarly, greater screen time at T1 also prospectively predicted an increase in EA at T2, leading to higher levels of ATs and lower levels of ToM at T3. The results indicate that experiential avoidance prospectively plays a mediating role in the relationship between PSU, screen time, ToM, and ATs. In the context of today's increasing digital addiction tendencies, these findings suggest that EA is a potentially important transdiagnostic variable to consider in assessments and interventions aimed at supporting socio-cognitive and emotional functioning.
A longitudinal mediated examination of legal, commercial, and individual determinants of cannabis and derived cannabis use behaviors and consequences among US young adults.
LoParco CR, Rossheim ME, Wang Y … +4 more , Yang YT, Paichadze N, Cavazos-Rehg PA, Berg CJ
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41135124 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Cannabis and derived intoxicating cannabis product (DICP; e.g., delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) use is increasing, particularly among young adults. We examined how state cannabis and DICP laws and cannabi...
BACKGROUND: Cannabis and derived intoxicating cannabis product (DICP; e.g., delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) use is increasing, particularly among young adults. We examined how state cannabis and DICP laws and cannabis advertisement exposure impact cannabis/DICP risk perceptions and use motives and how those, in turn, impact cannabis and DICP behaviors (use, frequency, intentions) and consequences. METHODS: We analyzed two waves (2023-2024) of longitudinal survey data among 3,437 US young adults ages 18-34 (∼50 % past-month cannabis use by design). Multivariable regressions assessed direct and indirect associations via parallel mediation. RESULTS: Participants in states with legal (vs. illegal) non-medical cannabis had lower DICP use motives, higher odds of cannabis-only use (vs. neither or both), and used cannabis more frequently; associations with use behaviors were mediated by cannabis/DICP motives and risk perceptions. More restrictive delta-8 THC laws were associated with higher odds of cannabis-only use (vs. neither or both). More digital cannabis ad exposure and less exposure to traditional/store-based ads were associated with lower risk perceptions and higher use motives, odds of cannabis/DICP use, use intentions, and consequences; associations were mediated by cannabis/DICP use motives and/or risk perceptions. Lower cannabis/DICP risk perceptions and higher use motives were associated with higher odds of using each respective substance, co-use, and intentions. Using cannabis/DICPs more frequently was associated with experiencing more cannabis consequences; cannabis/DICP frequency mediated associations of cannabis state laws, advertising exposure, and motives with cannabis consequences. CONCLUSIONS: These pathways underscore how laws and marketing shape use, supporting interventions targeting risk perceptions and motives to reduce harm.
Perceived burdensomeness partially mediates the longitudinal relationship between problem gambling and suicidal ideation.
Gray HM, Edson TC
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41135123 · Publisher ↗
Problem gambling is reliably linked with increased risk for suicidality. Research guided by the interpersonal theory of suicide suggests that two painful forms of social disconnection often associated with problem gambli...
Problem gambling is reliably linked with increased risk for suicidality. Research guided by the interpersonal theory of suicide suggests that two painful forms of social disconnection often associated with problem gambling - perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness - help explain increased risk for suicide ideation. Specifically, perceived burdensomeness appears to mediate the relationship between problem gambling and suicidal ideation, especially at high levels of thwarted belongingness. Looking "upstream," debt stress appears to link problem gambling to perceived burdensomeness. The current study is a longitudinal study of this phenomenon using a sample (N = 447) of highly-involved gamblers recruited from the MTurk platform. Using a 6-month timeframe, we found evidence of partial longitudinal mediation of problem gambling and suicidal ideation via perceived burdensomeness. Contrary to our hypothesis, problem gambling severity at Time 1 failed to predict debt stress at Time 2. Finally, we found evidence of a bidirectional relationship between problem gambling and suicide ideation, in that suicide ideation at Time 1 predicted problem gambling at Time 2. Clinical implications include the need to routinely screen for suicidality and perceived burdensomeness within problem gambling treatment. Future research should explore interventions that target perceived burdensomeness in this context.
Patterns, persistence, and changes of subtypes of internet gaming disorder among young gamers.
Ye X, Fong TCT, Yip PSF
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41135122 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is prevalent and comorbid with psychiatric problems such as depression and hikikomori among young generation. However, existing studies have not examined the longitudinal pathwa...
BACKGROUND: Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is prevalent and comorbid with psychiatric problems such as depression and hikikomori among young generation. However, existing studies have not examined the longitudinal pathways to IGD development over time. AIMS: This study aimed to extend the pathways model of IGD to the longitudinal setting and evaluate the patterns, persistence, and changes of IGD subtypes with varying comorbid problems and associated predictors. METHODS: The study included a sample of 601 young gamers (mean age = 23.8) in Hong Kong who completed surveys at two timepoints. Latent transition analysis was conducted based on scores of IGD, depression, hikikomori, and disruptor traits. Multinomial logistic regression models investigated the predictors. RESULTS: Four latent classes were identified: the healthy class, the socially low IGD class, the disruptive IGD subtype, and the socially depressed IGD subtype. They showed distinct transition patterns and the disruptive IGD subtype was less stable and more likely to recover than the socially depressed IGD type. Low real-world social support, escapism, and playing strategy and MOBA games were associated with the stability of disruptive and socially depressed IGD subtypes. Playing more MMORPGs was associated with transition from the socially low IGD group to other two vulnerable IGD subtypes. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings supported the high comorbidity of IGD with other psychiatric problems rather than appearing alone. The persistence and heterogeneous profiles of two IGD subtypes inform personalized treatments to address the comorbid problems and highlight the importance of establishing real-world social support.
The associations between social media intensity, problematic social media use, and adolescents' mental health: A cross-lagged panel network analysis.
Liu G, Tong L, Chen Z … +6 more , Ma L, Liao W, Li Y, Li L, Miao X, Liu Y
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41130162 · Publisher ↗
A growing body of evidence suggests that social media use may have a profound impact on the mental health of adolescents. However, the way in which the social media intensity (SMI), problematic social media use (PSMU), a...
A growing body of evidence suggests that social media use may have a profound impact on the mental health of adolescents. However, the way in which the social media intensity (SMI), problematic social media use (PSMU), and adolescents' mental health interrelate at a dimensional level remains unclear. This study employed contemporaneous network and cross-lagged network models to explore the unique connections between different dimensions of SMI, PSMU, and adolescent mental health. A survey was administered to 1008 Chinese students, aged 12 to 18, at two time points spaced six months apart. The findings from two contemporaneous networks revealed that emotional connection with social media and withdrawal are the key reinforcing feedback loops (i.e., vicious cycles) driving the relationship between SMI and PSMU. The cross-lagged panel network demonstrated that depression emerged as a central and influential node within the dynamic network of SMI, PSMU, and mental health, which highlights the central role of depression in this interplay. Additionally, adolescents' mental health problems were more strongly predictive of subsequent PSMU than of SMI, with no reverse effect observed. These results suggest emotions play a key role in driving social media use, emphasizing the need for emotion-focused interventions to reduce PSMU and protect mental health.
Associations of rural-urban residence with daily experiences of minority stress and tobacco use among sexual minority young adults.
Romm KF, Gilford C, Das M … +3 more , Nhem M, Vogel EA, Cohn AM
Addict Behav · 2026 Jan · PMID 41124757 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Rural- vs. urban-residing sexual minority young adults (SMYAs) display higher tobacco use rates. Less work has identified minority stressors that contribute to geographic disparities in use, particularly at...
INTRODUCTION: Rural- vs. urban-residing sexual minority young adults (SMYAs) display higher tobacco use rates. Less work has identified minority stressors that contribute to geographic disparities in use, particularly at the daily level. METHODS: We analyzed 2024 baseline and 14 days of daily survey data among 60 SMYAs (ages 18-34) reporting current tobacco use. Multilevel regression-based models with random intercepts and slopes examined between-person effects of rural-urban residence on daily minority stress (i.e., negative affect, positive affect, upsetting parent interactions, upsetting peer interactions, microaggressions) and daily tobacco use (aggregated across cigarettes, e-cigarettes, large cigars, little cigars/cigarillos, smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches, hookah) and within-person effects of daily minority stress on same-day and next-day tobacco use, controlling for sociodemographics (i.e., age, sexual identity, gender identity, sex at birth, race and ethnicity). RESULTS: Among this sample of 60 SMYAs (M = 24.53 [SD = 5.19]; 50 % rural-residing; 31.7 % monosexual, 46.7 % bisexual+; 56.7 % gender minority; 55.0 % female; 47.5 % racial/ethnic minority), rural (vs. urban) residence was associated with higher levels of daily upsetting interactions with parents and higher odds of microaggressions and tobacco use. Upsetting interactions with parents and microaggressions were in turn, associated with higher odds of same-day and next-day tobacco use. CONCLUSIONS: Minority stress experiences may impact SMYAs' concurrent and subsequent tobacco use. These daily minority stress experiences and tobacco use episodes occur more often and at higher levels among rural- (vs. urban-) residing SMYAs, highlighting the need for interventions focused on promoting adaptive coping in response to minority stressors in real time, particularly for rural-residing SMYAs.
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