The Negative Effect of Legalization on Our Youth

In North America, marijuana is the most commonly consumed illicit drug, and the most prevalent amongst youth. By legalizing the drug, we are potentially sending a message that is acceptable to consume marijuana by putting it in the same category as tobacco and alcohol. This could result in higher usage rates because society will no longer prohibit usage; individuals that previously had a negative view on the drug will in turn be less hesitant to engage with the drug.


To purchase tobacco and alcohol in Canada you have to be of legal age, which is normally 18 or 19 years old. Despite the legal minimum age required to purchase these items, it is important to understand that minors still manage to access and consume them.  A recent study conducted by Statistics Canada revealed that out of 121,000  urveyed, one in ten teenagers smoked in 2011. A separate study, conducted from  2004 - 2011,  revealed that the average age for introduction to alcohol was around 15 1/2 years old. When reviewing the statistics it is safe to conclude that although the legal age to purchase tobacco and alcohol in Canada ranges from 18 to 19, depending on the province/territory you reside in, these substances are still ending up in the hands of youth much younger than this. Adolescent children have obvious access. If the argument were that by imposing an age requirement on marijuana we are protecting our youth - I would have to disagree.

Illustration of the Endocannabinoid System,
which shows how THC affects the brain and body.

A developing brain that is exposed to marijuana can alter the anatomy of the brain and cause psychological problems. Exposure to the drug can also damage major organs including the heart and lungs. Northwestern University  performed a study where they monitored the brain functionality of a heavy marijuana user and concluded that the brain abnormalities they found were similar to those found in individuals with schizophrenia. The study also points out that heavy use of marijuana also results in memory related problems and a decrease in the amount of neurons.  While this study is directed toward heavy marijuana use, some might argue that the substance is far less harmful if used in moderation.



Legalizing marijuana could result in an increase in usage amongst our youth. In my opinion, this would be an ill advised decision due to the fact that marijuana is proven to have damaging effects on the developing brain and can lead to dependency issues. If the argument is that putting an age requirement on legalized marijuana will prevent our youth from obtaining the drug, it should be noted that regulation hasn't prevented our youth from obtaining tobacco and alcohol; why would it prevent them from obtaining marijuana?

This video better explains the Endocannabinoid System, showing how THC affects the brain and body.

Citations:

Janz, T. (2012, June 19). Current smoking trends. Retrieved from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-624-x/2012001/article/11676-eng.htm

Canadian Alcohol and Drug Use Monitoring Survey. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hc-ps/drugs-drogues/stat/_2011/summary-sommaire-eng.php#a9


Paul, M. (2013, December 16). Heavy marijuana users have abnormal brain structure and poor memory. Retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-12/nu-hmu121013.php