Why Women Who Use More Cannabis May Be Happier in Love — But Not Men
Women who frequently use marijuana report feeling more satisfied in their romantic relationships, according to a new Israeli study — but for men, the effects may be the exact opposite.
Researchers from Ariel University and Achva Academic College surveyed 110 couples to explore how cannabis consumption affects love, sex, and emotional connection. Their findings, published this month in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, reveal a striking gender divide.
Women who used cannabis intensively — meaning often and in larger amounts — were significantly more likely to report higher relationship satisfaction. They also perceived themselves and their partners as more emotionally responsive.
“High-intensity cannabis use is linked to higher relationship satisfaction among women,” the authors concluded.
Men, however, told a different story. Those who used marijuana at similar levels reported lower satisfaction and diminished emotional connection. These findings hint at a complex psychological and physiological interplay between cannabis and gender dynamics in relationships.
Cannabis and Couple Compatibility
The researchers highlight one key factor: compatibility in usage. When partners used cannabis at similar levels, satisfaction tended to rise. Mismatches — where one partner consumed much more than the other — were linked to lower quality relationships and diminished sexual satisfaction.
This lines up with the “compatibility theory” of romantic bonding, which suggests shared leisure activities foster deeper emotional investment and closeness.
“When couples share cannabis use, it may create more frequent bonding moments,” the researchers explain. “But when usage differs, it may lead to fewer shared experiences, undermining intimacy.”
Gender Norms and Cannabis Perceptions
The study also ventures into the psychology of gender roles. Cannabis use by women — particularly at high levels — may reflect a departure from traditional feminine norms. Embracing such nontraditional roles, the researchers suggest, could promote greater authenticity and self-alignment, boosting overall happiness in relationships.
Conversely, men are statistically more likely to experience negative effects from heavy marijuana use — including mental health challenges and interpersonal conflicts — which may lower both their own and their partners’ satisfaction.
Still More Questions Than Answers
While this study sheds new light on how marijuana affects romantic satisfaction, it also raises new questions. Why exactly do men seem more vulnerable to cannabis’s downsides? And how do cultural expectations shape the way cannabis use influences relationships?
The researchers call for further investigation, especially with larger and more diverse samples.
Explore More on Cannabis and Behavior
This new research adds to a growing body of work on how cannabis affects not only relationships but broader aspects of lifestyle and well-being. From reducing alcohol intake to enhancing entertainment experiences, marijuana is being studied through multiple lenses. Learn more in our latest reports on how cannabis drinks could reduce alcohol use, the best weed strains to try in 2025, and the evolving connection between gaming and marijuana use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “high-intensity cannabis use”?
High-intensity cannabis use generally refers to frequent and/or large-quantity marijuana consumption. In studies like this, it typically means daily or near-daily use.
What does “perceived partner responsiveness” mean?
This term refers to how much someone feels their partner understands, validates, and cares for them during interactions. It’s a key factor in relationship satisfaction.
What is the “compatibility theory”?
Compatibility theory suggests that couples who engage in shared activities, including substance use, tend to experience greater satisfaction due to stronger mutual understanding and bonding.
What are “dyadic analyses”?
Dyadic analysis is a method used in social science to analyze data from both members of a couple simultaneously, allowing researchers to examine how each partner’s behavior affects the other.
