You have been given the task of making a presentation to a group of junior high school students arguing against making marijuana legal. What are four risks associated with its use that you could include in your talk?
http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/evidence99/marijuana/Health_1.html
http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/marijuana-use-and-its-effects
http://www.csmonitor.com/Commentary/the-monitors-view/2011/1216/Why-teens-need-to-know-risks-of-marijuana
When presenting arguments against making marijuana legal to a group of junior high school students, it is important to provide evidence-based information that highlights potential risks associated with its use. Here are four risks you could discuss:
1. Impaired Brain Development: Marijuana use can negatively impact brain development, particularly in young individuals whose brains are still developing. The active compound in marijuana, THC, can interfere with the normal functioning of the brain, potentially leading to difficulties in attention, memory, and learning.
To support this argument, you could cite scientific studies, such as those conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, that show how marijuana use during adolescence can have long-term effects on cognitive abilities.
2. Mental Health Risks: While not everyone who uses marijuana will experience mental health problems, research suggests a link between marijuana use and various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
To substantiate this point, you can refer to studies published in reputable scientific journals, such as The Lancet or JAMA Psychiatry, that demonstrate the potential for marijuana to exacerbate or trigger mental health conditions.
3. Motivation and Performance: Regular marijuana use can impact motivation and academic performance. It may decrease individuals' motivation to study, participate in extracurricular activities, or pursue their goals, which can have long-lasting negative consequences.
You could reference research studies, such as those carried out by organizations like the American Psychological Association, that highlight the relationship between marijuana use and decreased educational achievement.
4. Physical Health Risks: Marijuana smoke contains many of the same harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. Smoking marijuana can lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis, cough, and lung infections. Additionally, frequent marijuana use may impair the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
To substantiate these health risks, you could refer to publications from reputable organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Lung Association, which outline the adverse effects of marijuana smoking on physical health.
Remember to present the risks objectively and avoid exaggerations or scare tactics. Encourage the students to critically evaluate the information and make informed decisions based on reliable evidence and scientific research.