Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-28-2026

Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD) is widely utilized for its therapeutic properties, yet its impact on an unmanipulated model at baseline behavior remains poorly understood. This study investigates CBD’s dose-dependent behavioral profile on spatial learning, memory, and anxiety using Long-Evans rats. Subjects received a vehicle, 20 mg/kg, or 40 mg/kg CBD dose prior to assessment in the Morris Water Task (MWT) and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM). MWT results indicated consistent Day 1 learning, but the 40 mg/kg dose induced a temporary disruption 24 hours post-treatment. Performance returned to baseline by day 6. On the EPM, traditional anxiety markers remained unchanged. While CBD did not alter the primary affective state, more granular markers revealed that it significantly modulated some of the exploratory behaviors. These findings support CBD’s dose-dependent behavior, where it is hypothesized that a higher dose is associated with disruptions in cognition. This work emphasizes the importance of dose-specific investigation.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Derek Hamilton

Second Committee Member

Nathan Pentkowski

Third Committee Member

Benjamin Clark

Language

English

Keywords

Cannabidiol (CBD), dose-response, learning, memory, anxiety, exploration

Document Type

Thesis

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