To investigate associations between cannabis use and subsequent receipt of social welfare assistance.
The Young in Norway Longitudinal Study. A population-based Norwegian sample (n = 2606) was followed-up from adolescence to late 20s. Self-report data were merged with data from national registers.
Data were extracted on the use of alcohol, tobacco and cannabis and other illegal substances. Information was also retrieved on socio-demographic and family factors, academic achievement, conduct problems and mental health. National registers provided data on social welfare assistance, educational level and crime statistics.
We observed prospective bivariate associations between increasing levels of cannabis use and subsequent social welfare assistance (P