the sample who endorsed (with a rating of 2 or subthreshold, or 3, threshold) the following criterion: tolerance (increased amount needed or decreased effect with same amount of marijuana= 33.3%; withdrawal = 0%; marijuana taken in larger amounts or for longer period than planned = 39.9%; desire to control or stop use of marijuana = 0 %; time required to obtain drug or recover from effects = 26%; given up activities = 6%; continued use of marijuana despite knowledge of worsening physical or psychological issue = 0%. Criteria for dependence is met with a score of “3” or “threshold” for a minimum of three items, and while no individual subject within our sample endorsed any three items, and therefore did not meet criteria for dependence, subjects did acknowledge some degree of tolerance, greater use than planned and time required to acquire the drug. The study findings, therefore, may be limited in generalizability to individuals who are chronic, heavy marijuana smokers but who do not endorse the more negative effects of marijuana use (i.e. psychological issues, inability to stop or cut down on use, withdrawal effects), and to those who do not meet for dependence, despite frequent, heavy use.
