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Marijuana and the perception of affect.

P L Clopton, D S Janowsky, J M Clopton, L L Judd, L Huey

Psychopharmacology March 22, 1979 DOI: 10.1007/bf00426737 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed
Sample size 30
Population Experienced male marijuana users
Intervention Placebo
Dose 6 mg delta 9-THC
Measures Affective Sensitivity Scale
Topics Cannabis
Key findings Active marijuana containing 6 mg delta 9-THC was followed by a decline in Affective Sensitivity Scale scores, indicating reduced ability to perceive emotions in others, whereas placebo produced no significant change.

Abstract

The influence of marijuana on the ability to perceive emotions in others was studied in 30 male volunteers who were experienced marijuana users. Subjects smoked either placebo or active marijuana containing 6 mg delta 9-THC. The Affective Sensitivity Scale, a test developed to measure the ability to perceive emotions in others, was divided at midpoint and the two halves were administered before and after smoking, respectively. Analysis of variance demonstrated a decline in test scores following active marijuana administration, while changes following the placebo treatment were not significant.