INFLUENCE OF DISPOSITIONAL MINDFULNESS AND SPIRITUALITY ON READINESS TO CHANGE CANNABIS USE

INFLUENCE OF DISPOSITIONAL MINDFULNESS AND SPIRITUALITY ON READINESS TO CHANGE CANNABIS USE

ABSTRACT

This study used a cross-sectional design to investigate the influence of dispositional mindfulness and spirituality on readiness to change cannabis use. Participants were one hundred and fifty seven (157) cannabis users. Their ages ranged between 17 – 44 years, with a mean age of 24.50 (SD = 4.28).  Three instruments were used for data collection. Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaires (Baer, Smith, Hopkins, Krietemeyer, & Toney, 2006), Spiritual Experience Index-Revised (Genia, 1997), and the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES 8D) (Miller & Tonigan, 1996). Step wise multiple regression was the main statistic used for data analysis. Results of the regression analysis showed that Spiritual support (β = – .297, t =- 3.97, p<.001) and spiritual openness (β =.35, t = 4. 71, p<.001) significantly predicted readiness to change. Mindfulness significantly predicted readiness to change (β = .22, t = 2. 80, p<.o1). However among the subscales of mindfulness, only non-judge predicted readiness to change (β = .168, t = 2.21, p< 05). While observing, describing, acting with awareness and non-reactivity to inner experience were not significant predictor of readiness to change. Mindfulness total significantly predicted the subscale of readiness to change including taking step (β = .178, t= 2.19, p<.05); ambivalence (β = .26, t = 3.31, p<.01); and recognition (β =.186, t = 2.36, p<.05). Mindfulness and Spirituality were therefore argued to have potential benefits in the rehabilitation of individuals who abuse cannabis.