Impact of Cannabis Intoxication on Programming Performance

Core Concepts

The author conducted a controlled observational study to determine the impact of cannabis intoxication on programming performance, finding that it significantly impairs correctness and speed in programming tasks.

Abstract

An observational study was conducted to assess the effects of cannabis intoxication on programming ability. Results showed that high programmers exhibited lower correctness scores and slower completion times compared to sober programmers. Despite anecdotes of improved creativity, no evidence was found for different algorithmic or stylistic choices by cannabis-intoxicated programmers. The study included short programming problems and longer "interview-style" coding questions. High participants showed decreased correctness and increased time for completion in both types of tasks. Typing speed, deletions, and non-typing time were identified as contributing factors to the slower performance while intoxicated. Efficiency tests did not show significant differences between high and sober participants. Method choice divergence analysis also revealed no significant differences between the two groups. The study suggests caution in crafting anti-cannabis policies based on these findings.

Stats

Programs implemented while high contain more bugs and take longer to write (𝑝 < 0.05) — a small to medium effect (0.22 ≤ 𝑑 ≤ 0.44). Cannabis-intoxicated programmers exhibit different typing patterns, including deleting and rewriting code more frequently and pausing for longer without typing (𝑝 ≤ 0.003, 𝑑 ≥ 0.35). Participants passed fewer correctness tests in the cannabis-intoxicated session than in the sober session for both short programming problems and "interview-style" coding questions. High participants spent more time not actively typing code compared to sober participants (64.9% vs 60.6%, 𝑝 = 0.003,𝑑 = 0.36).

Quotes

"Cannabis significantly impairs programming performance with lower correctness scores and slower completion times." "No evidence found for different algorithmic or stylistic choices by cannabis-intoxicated programmers."

Key Insights Distilled From

High Expectations

by Wenxin He,Ma... at arxiv.org 03-01-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2402.19194.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How can these findings be applied practically in software development environments?

The findings of this study suggest that cannabis intoxication can have a negative impact on programming performance, leading to less correct programs and slower completion times. In practical terms, software development teams may need to consider the potential effects of cannabis use on their team members' productivity and accuracy. This could involve implementing policies or guidelines regarding substance use during work hours, especially in roles where precision and efficiency are critical. To apply these findings effectively, software development environments could consider: Providing education and awareness about the potential impacts of cannabis use on programming tasks. Encouraging open communication within teams about substance use habits and how it may affect work performance. Implementing clear guidelines or policies around drug usage at work, including consequences for violating those policies. Offering support or resources for team members who may be struggling with substance abuse issues.

What are the potential implications for workplace drug policies based on this research?

Based on the research findings indicating that cannabis intoxication can impair programming performance, there are several implications for workplace drug policies: Policy Development: Companies may need to establish clear guidelines regarding drug usage during working hours, including specific rules around cannabis consumption. Testing Protocols: Consider implementing regular drug testing procedures as part of hiring processes or ongoing employment requirements. Education Programs: Offer educational programs or resources to help employees understand the potential impacts of substance use on job performance. Support Services: Provide access to support services for employees dealing with substance abuse issues. Overall, this research suggests that companies should carefully consider how they address drug usage in the workplace to maintain a productive and safe environment for all employees.

How might future studies explore the relationship between cannabis use history and its impact on programming performance?

Future studies could delve deeper into understanding how an individual's history of cannabis use influences their programming performance under its influence. Some possible avenues for exploration include: Conduct longitudinal studies tracking individuals over time to observe changes in programming abilities related to varying levels of past cannabis consumption. Investigate whether certain patterns or frequencies of past cannabis use have different effects on current programming tasks compared to others. Explore any mitigating factors that might offset negative impacts from previous heavy marijuana usage when performing coding tasks while intoxicated. By examining these aspects more closely, researchers can gain a better understanding of how past experiences with marijuana interact with present-day cognitive functions during complex problem-solving activities like coding tasks in software development settings.