Cannabis Use and Emotions in Romantic Relationships

Increase in the global prevalence of cannabis use has drawn attention to its predictors and psychosocial outcomes. Romantic relationships play a role in psychological well-being, yet data on the bidirectional association between cannabis use and romantic relationships is scarce and inconsistent. This paper aims to review existing literature and gaps in knowledge regarding this association.

Over time, cannabis use may negatively affect the outcome of romantic relationships, and vice-versa. Recent methodological advances have suggested that on the one hand, concordance in cannabis use may be associated with decreased conflict and an increased sense of intimacy. On the other hand, cannabis users may perceive their communication as more positive compared to independent raters’ evaluation.

Several factors may contribute to these conflicting results and should be further explored, including the intensity of cannabis use, gender, age, and the effect of cannabis use on motivation and cognition.