The effects of multitasking on psychological stress reactivity in recreational users of cannabis and MDMA
Mark Wetherell, Katie Atherton, Jessica Grainger, Robert Brosnan, Andrew Scholey
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental March 1, 2012 DOI: 10.1002/hup.1261 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Observational study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 63 |
| Population | Recreational cannabis and MDMA users compared with non-target drug controls |
| Topics | Cannabis MDMA |
| Keywords | Human multitasking Stressor Neurocognitive Mood Cognition Clinical psychology Effects of cannabis |
| Citations | 25 |
| Key findings | Recreational use of cannabis and MDMA, beyond the period of intoxication, can negatively influence psychological responses to a multitasking stressor. |
Abstract
Background: Cannabis and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) use is associated with psychobiological and neurocognitive deficits. Assessments of the latter typically include tests of memory and everyday cognitive functioning. However, to date, little attention has been paid to effects of drug use on psychological stress reactivity. We report three studies examining the effects of recreational use of cannabis and MDMA on mood and psychological responses to multitasking using a cognitively demanding laboratory stressor that provides an analogue for everyday situations involving responses to multiple stimuli.
Methods: The effects of the multitasking framework on mood and perceived workload were assessed in cannabis ( N =25), younger ( N =18) and older ( N =20) MDMA users and compared with non‐target drug controls.
Results: Compared with respective control groups, cannabis users became less alert and content, and both MDMA groups became less calm following acute stress. Unexpectedly, the stressor increased ratings of calm in cannabis users. Users also scored higher than their controls with respect to ratings of resources needed to complete the multitasking framework.
Conclusions: These findings show, for the first time, that recreational use of cannabis and MDMA, beyond the period of intoxication, can negatively influence psychological responses to a multitasking stressor, and this may have implications for real‐life situations which place high demands on cognitive resources. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.