Dependence on cannabis--an ever lasting issue.

In this paper the dependence syndrome on cannabis as it is defined in International Classification Systems (e.g., DSM-IV) will be examined from a theoretical and a technical point of view. Therefore, both the conceptualization and the operationalization of the dependence syndrome are the focus of interest. It is shown that dependence on cannabis should deal with only psychic dependence. Analyzing criteria of psychic dependence via DSM-IV points to the need of conceptual reformulation. Deficiencies concerning variable validity and measurement conditions are pointed out. It is suggested, that the dependence syndrome on cannabis via international classification systems (e.g. DSM-IV) should be revised.