Speaking of Psychology Marijuana: The brain changer (SOP16)
Oct 14, 2014
Krista Lisdahl, a neuropsychologist and director of the Brain Imaging and Neuropsychology Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, explores the alarming impact of marijuana on the developing brains of teenagers and young adults. She highlights the concerning rise in usage among adolescents and examines how chronic use can alter brain structure, affect cognitive functioning, and lead to mood issues. Lisdahl urges the need for informed policies and education to protect youth amidst increasing legalization and rising THC levels.
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Teen Misunderstanding And Rising Use
- Most teenagers and young adults don't understand marijuana as a brain-acting drug and often see it as harmless.
- Heavy regular use among high school seniors has risen to almost 7% daily, surpassing daily alcohol use.
Policy Must Balance Public Health And Justice
- Policymakers must weigh whether prohibition reduces use and whether it causes harms like racial disparities in arrests.
- If jurisdictions legalize, they should plan prevention, treatment, advertising limits, potency caps, and product safety ahead of time.
Teen Brains Are Especially Vulnerable
- Adolescent brains keep developing until the mid-20s, making regular marijuana use more harmful in youth.
- Regular teen use impairs verbal memory, impulse control, attention, decision-making, mood, and sleep, sometimes with lasting IQ effects.