Cognition and behavior in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder using medical marijuana

This research project examines cognition and behavior in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the context of medical marijuana use. The study addresses an urgent knowledge gap at the intersection of developmental neuropsychology, clinical care, and evolving public policy: as medical cannabis becomes more accessible, families and clinicians increasingly seek evidence about its potential cognitive and behavioral benefits and risks for youth with ASD.

This investigation centers on careful characterization of cognitive domains and behavioral patterns in pediatric and adolescent ASD populations exposed to medical marijuana, with attention to developmental stage, symptom profiles and concurrent therapies. This research emphasizes rigorous, ethically grounded evaluation rather than advocacy. Key priorities include defining appropriate outcome measures relevant to daily functioning and quality of life for children and adolescents with ASD, identifying cognitive domains most likely to be affected by cannabinoids (such as attention, executive function, learning and memory), and clarifying behavioral effects that are meaningful to caregivers and clinicians (including social engagement, repetitive behaviors, anxiety and sleep).

The project aims to contextualize any observed changes within developmental trajectories typical for ASD, distinguishing short-term pharmacologic effects from longer-term developmental impacts. Methodologically, the study is positioned to integrate standardized neuropsychological assessment, caregiver- and clinician-reported behavioral measures, and detailed clinical histories regarding formulation, dosing, and indication for medical marijuana use. Emphasis is placed on stratification by age and baseline cognitive profile to capture heterogeneity in ASD and potential differential responses. The research team plans to employ careful observational and analytic approaches to account for confounding factors common in real-world clinical settings, such as concomitant medications, behavioral interventions and comorbid conditions. Where feasible and ethical, the project will prioritize prospective data collection to enhance temporal inference about associations between exposure and outcomes.

Beyond clinical measurement, the study foregrounds stakeholder perspectives: families, clinicians and educators are integral to defining meaningful outcomes and interpreting findings in practical terms. Understanding caregiver decision-making, expectations, and observed functional changes provides critical context for clinical recommendations. The project also seeks to inform clinical practice by clarifying when evidence supports cautious consideration of medical marijuana as part of a comprehensive care plan versus when potential cognitive or behavioral risks warrant alternative strategies. This work contributes to an evidence base necessary for informed clinical guidance, policy discussions, and future intervention trials. By focusing on rigorous characterization of cognition and behavior among children and adolescents with ASD who use medical marijuana, the project aims to advance knowledge about benefits, risks, and appropriate monitoring strategies. The outcomes are intended to support clinicians, families and policymakers in making developmentally informed decisions, prioritizing child and adolescent wellbeing while recognizing the complexity of treating ASD symptoms within diverse clinical and regulatory environments.