The majority of the 29 adults (18-52 years old) interviewed went through a phase of experimentation with illicit drugs in adolescence. Some used illicit substances experimentally, and others developed more regular, sometimes problematic, patterns of use. All experienced changes and reductions in their use of illicit drugs over time. Their involvement with marijuana as adults differed in a number of ways from their use patterns in adolescence. Marijuana use was secondary to other concerns in their lives. The majority were legitimately employed and successful in their lives by most measures. They fulfilled family and employment responsibilities and minimized the risk for problematic marijuana use by limiting it to their free time. The frequency of use was regulated to fit conventional lifestyles that they were committed to maintaining. They revealed their marijuana use only to a select group of close friends and family members whom they could trust. Their marijuana use was viewed as a recreational, private activity that was kept from interfering with their primary responsibilities and goals in life. This study shows the importance of considering variations among drug users and their patterns of use when conducting drug research. The data used in this study were compiled as part of a larger, exploratory, qualitative study of marijuana use and decisionmaking. The subjects, all of whom identified themselves as marijuana users, consisted of 17 males and 12 females. Data were collected between 2000 and 2002. Interviews focused on decisionmaking linked with the initiation, continuation, and current patterns of marijuana use and how it was integrated into their lifestyles. 72 references