De modererende rol van zelfcontrole in de relatie tussen de aandachtsbias en cannabisgebruik

Abstract

This study examined whether self-control can moderate the relationship between the attentional bias and cannabis use in the general population. This study is part of a broader research that examines other variables with a possible impact on the relationship between the attentional bias and cannabis use. Methods: The data was collected by approaching participants in the social network of the researchers. The sample consisted of 72 adults between 18 and 65 years old (30% men). Cannabis use was measured by the Disorder Identification Test - Revised (CUDIT-R). The attentional bias was measured by the Visual Probe Task (VPT). Self-control was measured by the Brief Self-Control Scale. For this study a multiple hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine if self-control moderates the relation between cognitive bias and cannabis use. Results: Contrary to our expectations, the attentional bias was not significantly related to cannabis use. Therefore, self-control didn’t show any moderation effect in this relation. Low self-control was related to higher cannabis use. Conclusion: Present findings suggest it is important that interventions that prevent and reduce problematic cannabis use should aim for improving self-control.