Does Marijuana Use Moderate Employment Stability?

• In Event: Extensions to Group Based Trajectory Modeling

Abstract

This analysis tests for state dependence in stable employment over early adulthood, and whether or not this relationship is moderated by trajectories of marijuana use. Using data from the Rochester Youth Development Study, we identify trajectories of marijuana usage from adolescence through age 31, which differ in terms of rate of use, onset and maintenance of marijuana use over adolescence and into adulthood. Persistent marijuana use is associated with lower full-time employment at ages 28-30. We also consider frequent marijuana use, defined as use three times per week or more, as a potential moderator of these transitions. In terms of stability, full-time employment in a prior period is uniformly associated with higher employment regardless of usage trajectory.

Authors

• Pilar Larroulet, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

• Thomas A. Loughran, Pennsylvania State University

• Megan Bears Augustyn, University of Texas at San Antonio

• Kimberly Henry, Colorado State University