NCJ Number
171802
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 26 Issue: 4 Dated: (Fall 1996) Pages: 695-733
Date Published
1996
Length
39 pages
Annotation
Marijuana is discussed with respect to research findings regarding its history, botany, active ingredients, effects, and negative consequences; issues related to prevention and cessation of marijuana use; and current issues in marijuana research.
Abstract
Perceptions about the danger of marijuana use have had an uneven history. Marijuana was considered relatively harmless before the 1930s, very dangerous in the late 1930s and early 1940s, and less dangerous by the 1960s and 1970s. The 1980s and 1990s have been a period in which its neuroactivity has been more closely studied. Its potential to facilitate accidents and other violent effects began to be studied in detail. Its acceptance as an addictive drug that needs treatment similar to that for other drugs has also been more appreciated. Recently, the prevalence of use has apparently increased. Chronic marijuana use among adolescents may hinder development and is associated with a greater likelihood of using other drugs; impairment of social relationships; and a higher risk for arrests for driving under the influence, for accidents, and for involvement in violence. Long-term use is associated with lung damage and memory difficulties. Some of these associations seem likely to reflect causal associations. Research is needed to understand this drug and to prevent these consequences. Areas in which further research is needed include the preference for marijuana as the illicit drug of choice among high-risk youth and young adults, ethnic differences in marijuana use, marijuana use and driving, current marijuana-related legislation, marijuana use and violence, and marijuana and the media. 192 references (Author abstract modified)