Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the research being done?

The purpose of the research study is to test a text-delivered counseling program to help young adults (ages 18 to 25) reduce, manage, or stop their cannabis use.

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

You could receive $200 over 6 months if you complete all assessments.

What will I do in this study?

You will be randomly assigned to the texting counseling group or to the waitlist control group. Your assignment will be random, like flipping a coin. If you are assigned to the texting counseling group, you will receive approximately 10-11 texts per day, 4 days per week, for 4 weeks and complete surveys. Being in the waitlist control group means that you will only complete surveys, and after 6 months, you can receive the texting counseling program if you wish.

How long will I be in the research study?

If you agree to participate, you will be involved in this study for 6 months.

What happens if I say “Yes” but change my mind later?

Even if you decide to be in the study now, you can change your mind and stop at any time.

Are there any risks to me?

Sometimes answering questions about personal issues makes people upset, although this is very rare.

Are there any benefits to me?

There is a possibility that you may benefit from being in the study, but there is no guarantee. Possible benefits include reflecting on your use of cannabis and making changes in behaviors you want to change.

What will happen with the information collected for this study?

We will keep the information from this study highly confidential and private. All your answers will be identified by a study ID number, not your name. We have obtained a Certificate of Confidentiality from the National Institutes of Health that can be used by the researchers to legally refuse to disclose information that identifies you.

What will happen to my information after this study is over?

Your name and other information that can directly identify you will be deleted from your research data collected as part of the study. If you agree to be contacted for future research, we will keep your contact information in a secure, password protected file.

Who can answer my questions about this research study?

If you have questions about this study contact the researchers:

Michael J. Mason, Ph.D. or

J. Douglas Coatsworth Ph.D.

weedstudy@utk.edu

865-974-7697