Use and Habits of the Protagonists of the Story: Cannabis Social Clubs in Barcelona

• Published in: Journal of drug issues Vol. 49; no. 4; pp. 607 - 624
• Main Authors: Parés-Franquero, Òscar, Jubert-Cortiella, Xavier, Olivares-Gálvez, Sergi, Díaz-Castellano, Albert, Jiménez-Garrido, Daniel F., Bouso, José Carlos
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01-10-2019; SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subjects: Clubs; Consumption; Drug abuse; Health planning; Health risks; Marijuana; Protection; Public health; Well being; Barcelona Spain; Spain; cannabis legislation; quantitative research; cannabis consumption; drug policy; Cannabis Social Clubs (CSC)
• ISSN: 0022-0426; 1945-1369
• DOI: 10.1177/0022042619852780

In Spain, cannabis users are turning to Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs) as an alternative for obtaining supplies of the substance, free from the risks of the illegal market. The current study aims to establish the profile of a sample (N = 155) of Spanish CSC members and identify the impacts that these clubs have had on their consumption. To conduct the study, we developed a questionnaire structured around various issues related to the socioeconomic profile of users, their patterns of use, and the practical consequences of being a member of a CSC. The most important findings were that belonging to a CSC did not increase cannabis use and that the services that CSCs offer have favorable impacts on CSC members in terms of reducing health risks, providing legal protection, and improving their general well-being. Based on our data, the regulation of CSCs is warranted as a public health strategy regarding cannabis use.