Adolescent cannabis use and problem use appear to have distinct multi-factorial causes. Problem cannabis use might be a later manifestation of a pattern of conduct problems established in early childhood, although it is also associated with disadvantage and maternal substance use, irrespective of whether or not these precede overt conduct problems. These associations could suggest a preventive strategy focused on these risk factors. Cannabis use without apparent problems is both much more common and apparently much less influenced by any risk factors studied. A risk factor-based approach to prevention of unproblematic cannabis use seems less appropriate.
