Dr. Andrea Paiva, Assistant Professor of Psychology

Abstract: Marijuana use among college students remains a prevalent public health issue with associated risks including impaired driving, especially with the legalization of marijuana in RI in December of 2022. Understanding and enhancing readiness to change these behaviors is critical for developing targeted interventions. The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) provides a robust framework for assessing and promoting behavior change across a wide range of health-related behaviors. However, its application to marijuana use and driving after use remains underexplored. Developing specific, validated measures based on the TTM can fill this gap, providing tools for researchers and practitioners to better address these behaviors. Working with MADD RI (Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Rhode Island) on this initiative will help broaden their scope from alcohol use and driving, to impaired driving which can include marijuana use.