As students walk into the school bathrooms, most already know what to expect: a wave of smoke followed by a group of students reeking of cheap body spray, failing to mask the stench of weed. The use of marijuana has become a regular at several high schools in the last few years due to its legalization, as reported by Smart Approaches to Marijuana. The increase in marijuana use can be attributed to several factors, but first, one must understand how it became normalized and how the marijuana consumption “trend” started among teenagers.
Many believe peer pressure is the primary factor for the increase in teenage marijuana consumption. Although it is a factor, the biggest contributor to the issue is the normalization theory.
According to the National Library of Medicine, the theory states that widespread use of marijuana not only influences already rebellious, rule-breaking teenagers but now reaches regular, mainstream teenagers and influences them to join the “trend.” As a result, substance use rates continue to increase and may permanently change teenagers’ proneness to abuse substances. Recognizing the normalization theory and finding ways to stop it is the first step in taking action to stop substance abuse among teenagers.
Many prevention articles describe marijuana as bad because of physical health aspects. The scariest impacts, however, may be on a teenager’s mental health. According to UC Davis Health, users who consume marijuana are most likely to use it for recreation. As time goes on, users become increasingly more dependent on the drug, making it a need over a want.
The National Library of Medicine reported that the use of marijuana can result in increased levels of anxiety and impact the user’s social and personal relationships. Adolescent users must be aware of the behavioral and psychological risk factors involved in consumption. These factors include but are not limited to fighting, bullying, low academic achievement and poor relationships with teachers and parents. In the midst of one’s addiction, one must wonder, is the high worth all of the lows?
Another question that arises during the conversation about adolescent drug use is what schools will do about the issue of marijuana use in schools and among teenagers. According to Adams Esq, most school districts in California have no written and explicit rules against marijuana use specifically. Rather, it is generalized to any type of “controlled substances.” Additionally, some school districts have implemented zero-tolerance policies, positive intervention and restorative justice policies all in regards to the use of marijuana on campus. These policies primarily focus on educating students about marijuana and its effects. They fail to mention, however, how to prevent use and how to proceed with interventions.
Teenagers must be aware of the dangers of marijuana use. Even if their peers around them act as if it is acceptable, it remains an addictive drug that can quickly ruin one’s life. The biggest way society can aid in prevention starts at the home with parents.
A parent’s duty is to keep their child safe and cared for as well as being aware of what is happening in their child’s life so they can stay alert to any signs of usage. According to Lifespan, these signs usually include bloodshot eyes, increased sleepiness, increased anxiety or paranoia and delayed reaction time. Recognizing and understanding what the signs mean is the first step to aiding one’s child in their sobriety journey.