Degree Name

MA (Master of Arts)

Program

Criminal Justice and Criminology

Date of Award

8-2024

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Nicole Prior

Committee Members

Bradley Edwards, Jennifer Pealer

Abstract

Cannabis has been historically difficult to research due to its federal scheduling. However, as legalization of cannabis medically, recreationally, or both in states across the country has increased, so has the need to address the research gaps that persist. The purpose of this study was to explore the patterns of cannabis use and perceptions of college students in Tennessee, which encompass a demographic of mainly young adults who are typically associated with high usage patterns. The study uses quantitative data collected from an online survey sent to a university in East Tennessee to evaluate associations between students’ age, gender, race/ethnicity, class cohort, and political party affiliation. The results demonstrate that most of the students have used cannabis and support cannabis legalization. Policy implications for the campus and state are suggested.

Document Type

Thesis - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

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