MARITAL STATUS AS A DETERMINANT OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIOR THERAPY OUTCOME AMONG CANNABIS ABUSING YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

This study examined how marital status would have an impact on the outcome of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) treatment of cannabis abuse among young adults in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. It was hypothesized that CBT would be effective in the treatment of cannabis abuse among young adults and that marital status will be a determinant of the outcome of CBT. 20 young adults (10 males and 10 females) within the age range of 25 and 38 years, with a mean age of 30.00 were randomly selected to participate in the study. Two group pre-test / post-test experimental designs were used. Also, Repeated Measures ANOVA statistics was employed for data analysis. CBT was found to be effective in the treatment of cannabis abuse among young adults. In addition, marital status determined the outcome of CBT. It was concluded that CBT is effective in the treatment of cannabis abuse among young adults. In recommendation, the researchers pointed to the need for Nigerian therapists in this area to pay attention to those of single marital status because they seem to be less responsive to treatment.