Changing Masks: Identity Maintenance and the Role of Marijuana among a Small Circle of Marijuana Growers

Utilizing ethnographic field observations as well as face-to-face interviews, this article explores nuances of identity management among a small, intimate group of indoor marijuana growers. Findings suggest that some who are involved in marijuana cultivation may have multiple, distinct deviant identities or “masks.” These “masks” are called on depending on the audience and situation that each participant is presented with. Further, we show that these growers have three deviant identities that must constantly be managed including, (a) marijuana user, (b) marijuana seller, and (c) marijuana grower. Finally, we present data demonstrating the importance of marijuana in the everyday lives of the participants.