Studies have demonstrated that an increased state of social anxiety is associated with greater average cravings for marijuana use in women and people with SAD, particularly when the increased state of anxiety occurs during a social anxiety-provoking event, as opposed to beforehand or afterwards. Women are especially prone to using marijuana as a coping mechanism when experiencing socially uncomfortable situations (when anxiety is highest).

Marijuana use vulnerability 

•	Emerging data indicates that women may be exceptionally vulnerable to marijuana use as a form of managing social anxiety, as studies show women who use substances exhibit higher rates of anxiety and mood disorders in relation to male users, likewise girls with marijuana dependence experience higher anxiety then boys with marijuana dependence. In one study aimed at examining the relations between SAD and MUD symptoms accordingly by gender, SAD and MUD symptoms were found to positively correlate among women but not men.

Syracuse University

An association exists between individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD) and risk for developing marijuana dependence, appearing especially vulnerable to marijuana use disorders (MUD). Research indicates that social anxiety disorder and marijuana dependence share an especially prevalent relationship, wherein the rate of marijuana dependence is greater than twice more likely to occur in individuals with SAD as opposed to any other anxiety disorder. Furthermore, adolescents with SAD have approximately five times greater the risk of developing marijuana dependence. Evidence strongly suggests social anxiety is a risk factor of MUD. 



Risk of marijuana dependence

Buckner, J. D., Silgado, J., & Schmidt, N. B. (2011). Marijuana craving during a public speaking challenge: Understanding marijuana use vulnerability among women and those with social anxiety disorder. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 42(1), 104–110. https://doi-org.libezproxy2.syr.edu/10.1016/j.jbtep.2010.07.00

Marijuana craving during a public speaking challenge: Understanding marijuana use vulnerability among women and those with social anxiety disorder

Several substance use models and motivational models seek to explain the drug use behavior as it relates to SAD. Several theories posit that when substances are used as a means to mitigate negative affect, the risks of substance abuse and related issues are significantly increased. Therefore, it is assumed that individuals with SAD have greater use of coping motives and use marijuana to manage negative, uncomfortable feelings experienced in response to social situations.

Psychological motivators of marijuana use

Mediating factor of marijuana cravings in SAD individuals: Gender

Cannabis-Related Disorders are those in which the involvement of substances derived from the cannabis plant (and similar synthetic compounds), by an individual results in significant problems and impairment in behaviors, functioning, and/or overall health. This is particularly apparent, but not exclusive, to the component cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC or THC).

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