Back in October, the University of Montreal (Montreal, Quebec) completed a study that proves marijuana is more dangerous for teen brains than alcoholic substances. Following 3,800 teens, the team of researchers discovered that participants who used pot suffered from a decrease in skills, memory, and behavioral efficiency. However, given the fact that marijuana is now used as a viable medication in over half of the United States, we still have to ask: how badly does marijuana affect teen behavioral patterns? After all, pot is used more frequently among teens in certain parts of our world than cigarettes (not an entirely terrible notion, given the toxic chemicals in nicotine), but research on this little green plant is still limited. How does it truly affect teens? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
No Need for Concern…Slightly
In a recent study, a research team from the Annenberg Public Privacy Center (University of Pennsylvania) discovered that marijuana use does not impede problems with conduct or a tendency to associated with other teens who consume this drug. So, ultimately, this study completely clashes with previous research stating the obvious (as seen in the Montreal study). Ironically, teens and young adults who already have conduct or behavioral problems are more likely to gravitate toward marijuana use and other adolescents who consume this drug. So, you may be able to see why parents were initially concerned over the past couple of decades.
Socializing with Deviants…No Worries
Obviously, parents are mostly concerned about their teens finding camaraderie with delinquent teens who sell or use illegal drugs, but the truth is the opposite. Overall, teenagers who consume pot are more likely to spend time with harmless teens who also consume this drug. Obviously, the Pennsylvania study has projected that marijuana use will rise as legalization continues to take root. Thankfully, though, the researchers have predicted that only 25% of the world’s youth will suffer from cannabis use disorder. So, for the time, we don’t have much to worry about.
Seeking Treatment for Marijuana Use Disorder
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
