Christine Green
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The number of youths with marijuana-related problems dropped by 24 per cent between 2002 to 2013.
The number of American adolescents with marijuana-related issues is declining, a new survey has found as more US states legalise the drug.
Researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine examined drug use data of more than 216,000 adolescents between the age of 12 and 17 across all 50 states.
The number becoming dependent on cannabis, having trouble at school or in relationships has dropped by 24 per cent between 2002 to 2013.
In addition, the survey found the rate of marijuana use by teenagers has dropped despite more states legalising the drug.
Between 2002 and 2013, the number of 12 to 17-year-olds having used marijuana in the last 12 months dropped by 10 per cent.
The study's first author, Dr Richard A. Grucza, said the reductions were linked to the diminution of behavioural problems such as fighting, property crimes and selling drugs.
He said: "We were surprised to see substantial declines in marijuana use and abuse.
"We don't know how legalization is affecting young marijuana users, but it could be that many kids with behavioural problems are more likely to get treatment earlier in childhood, making them less likely to turn to pot during adolescence.
"But whatever is happening with these behavioural issues, it seems to be outweighing any effects of marijuana decriminalization."
News Moderator: Christine Green 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: Marijuana Legalization Reduces Adolescent Problems with The Drug, Study Finds
Author: Matt Payton
Contact: Matt Payton
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Website: Independent
The number of American adolescents with marijuana-related issues is declining, a new survey has found as more US states legalise the drug.
Researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine examined drug use data of more than 216,000 adolescents between the age of 12 and 17 across all 50 states.
The number becoming dependent on cannabis, having trouble at school or in relationships has dropped by 24 per cent between 2002 to 2013.
In addition, the survey found the rate of marijuana use by teenagers has dropped despite more states legalising the drug.
Between 2002 and 2013, the number of 12 to 17-year-olds having used marijuana in the last 12 months dropped by 10 per cent.
The study's first author, Dr Richard A. Grucza, said the reductions were linked to the diminution of behavioural problems such as fighting, property crimes and selling drugs.
He said: "We were surprised to see substantial declines in marijuana use and abuse.
"We don't know how legalization is affecting young marijuana users, but it could be that many kids with behavioural problems are more likely to get treatment earlier in childhood, making them less likely to turn to pot during adolescence.
"But whatever is happening with these behavioural issues, it seems to be outweighing any effects of marijuana decriminalization."
News Moderator: Christine Green 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: Marijuana Legalization Reduces Adolescent Problems with The Drug, Study Finds
Author: Matt Payton
Contact: Matt Payton
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Website: Independent
