Weed Out The Risk: An Anti-Crash Course on Cannabis and Driving
Author(s): Hector, Vegh
Slidedeck Presentation:
Abstract:
Context:
Multi-media campaigns, changes in impaired driving legislation and improvements in detection of alcohol impaired drivers have had a significant impact on driving behaviours (TIRF, 2018), particularly among youth (Statistics Canada, 2016). There is now a social stigma attached to drinking and driving acknowledged by youth and this has led to a decrease in cases of crashes with youth behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol (McGuire et al, 2011).
Despite increased awareness efforts on the topic, driving under the influence of cannabis remains an acceptable choice and continues to be downplayed despite the fact cannabis impairment has led to many driving crashes, fatal and otherwise, among youth (Statistics Canada, 2015). Drivers between 16 and 24 years of age have the highest fatality rate for both alcohol and drugs (DFKC, 2018).
The Canadian Public Health Association stated efforts to promote awareness on this issue have been less effective as the same stigma is not attached to impairment from using cannabis and driving as it is with alcohol impairment (CPHA, 2005). In a more recent survey report, youth often classified driving while impaired by cannabis as “safer” or “less dangerous” than driving while impaired by alcohol. Similarly, the behaviours associated with being high such as “calm”, “happy” and “chill” are not associated with risky driving (CCSA, 2017). Indeed, there are many misconceptions among youth about cannabis’ effects and whether it really impairs one’s ability to drive (CPHA, 2005).
In terms of health education, it is important that individuals have an opportunity to critically engage with information. “Engaging in innovative prevention approaches that embrace inclusive and balanced discussions about cannabis use can empower young people by promoting informed decision making” (Moffatt et al, 2017).
Springboard’s Weed Out the Risk program embraces a “stages of change” model of behavior change and content is intended to challenge youth on the myths of cannabis use and driving, as well as providing them with other relevant and compelling information, to move them towards consideration of alternatives to using cannabis and driving (or being a passenger in a high driver’s vehicle). The program is designed to move youth through the stages of change, encouraging them to consider and select alternative, healthier choices.
Objectives:
With the long term goal of improved road safety, Weed Out the Risk engages young people through creative games and activities that bridge communication and assist in developing an open dialogue and awareness around the issue of using cannabis and driving. A series of activities are presented including videos, interactive exercises and games. Content is displayed in youth friendly formats and allows opportunity for group discussion.
We approach the issue of cannabis and driving from a non-judgmental, harm reduction perspective and assert that all Canadian youth should be educated about the risks of cannabis impaired driving. Even if youth are not using cannabis themselves, we share the road as drivers, passengers and pedestrians and WOTR approaches impaired driving as an issue of public health. WOTR also advocates for youth to encourage others to make safe decisions, both as drivers and passengers, around cannabis impaired driving.
Target Group:
Weed Out the Risk’s target audience is high school aged youth. The program provides flexibility to reflect the various contexts, realities and specific challenges relating to where the program is being delivered and is inclusive for all Canadians.
Since its inception in 2014, over 105,000 youth have participated in the Weed Out the Risk program. WOTR is delivered in high school and community based settings via partnerships with road safety and youth serving organizations (MADD Canada, John Howard Society, YMCA’s) Delivery settings include high schools, community centres, youth hubs, driving schools, counselling practices, group homes and even custodial settings.
Activity(ies):
Weed Out the Risk was developed by Springboard and is endorsed by professional educators, CAMH, MADD Canada, Cannabis stakeholders and a cross section of community leaders, including the National Program Advisory Committee.
Using an interactive series of educational games, activities, discussions and videos WOTR builds on the existing knowledge level of participants in an interactive and dynamic learning environment. WOTR is facilitated using a non-judgmental, harm reduction approach allowing youth to examine the potential social, legal and financial consequences that may result from cannabis impaired driving.
In this regard, WOTR is an innovative educational experience that challenges the myths and misconceptions of cannabis use and driving in a direct and effective way. This program not only complements anti-drug & driving campaigns and government Public Service announcements, but also reinforces key messages due to its interactive, small group discussion format.
Deliverables:
An external evaluation of Weed Out the Risk is currently underway. The evaluation examines youth feedback to program content and immediate learning outcomes via post session survey. Longitudinal attitude and behavior changes are also examined via 3 month follow up surveys. Mixed evaluation methods have been applied to a review of documents, the monitoring of data, feedback surveys, key informant interviews and focus group discussions.
The Year One report from HCA determined that “The Weed Out the Risk program is relevant” as it is timely, given the legalization of cannabis across Canada and is important means of increasing youth’s knowledge about the risks of cannabis use and driving and debunking commonly held myths around cannabis impaired driving by youth
Youth Results Snapshot Year 1:
• 85% stated that they strongly agree or agree that they know more about how cannabis affects one’s ability to drive after the presentation.
• 90% noted the presentation increased their awareness of the consequences of driving high
• 70% of respondents indicated they were very likely or likely to share information from the presentation with family or friends
• 84% of youth stating they would definitely or probably recommend the program to other young people.
Evidence from this report also suggests that there is a significant need for WOTR in rural communities. Springboard is focused on expanding the number of unique community partners, and facilitators trained to deliver the Weed Out the Risk Program, in an effort to reach the as many Canadian Youth with this important messaging.