A Cannabis Cessation App Revealed Distinct User Profiles With Different Motivations and Readiness to Quit

Analysis of Stop-Cannabis app profiles revealed distinct subgroups based on cannabis use motives and readiness to change. Coping-motivated users showed higher rates of problematic use, while recreationally-motivated users showed different patterns of readiness to change. Subgroups differed in their levels of problematic use and engagement with the app.

Cluster analysis of user profiles from the Stop-Cannabis mobile app (Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva). Motives for cannabis use and readiness to change were used as clustering variables, with problematic use explored as an outcome across subgroups.

Digital interventions for cannabis use are growing, but one-size-fits-all approaches may miss the mark. Identifying distinct user profiles allows apps to tailor content — coping-motivated users may need mental health support, while recreational users may respond better to motivational approaches.

Mobile health interventions reach people who might never visit a clinic. By understanding who downloads cannabis cessation apps and why they use cannabis, developers can create more effective, personalized digital tools for the millions of people who want to change their relationship with cannabis.

App users are self-selected and may not represent all cannabis users. Cross-sectional — cannot track whether app use led to behavior change. Cluster analysis is exploratory. Specific to one app in a Swiss/French-speaking context.