Marijuana has recently been legalized in several states in the US for medical and/or recreational purposes. The debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana has been ongoing for several decades.

While some advocate for its legalization, others counter that it has negative effects on the youth, particularly on their cognitive abilities.

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry confirms the link between teen marijuana use and IQ drop.

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and Duke University analyzed data from a study that followed thousands of children through their teenage years and beyond.

What Did the Study Find?

The study found that when teenagers use marijuana regularly, their IQ scores decline by an average of 8 points by the time they reach adulthood. This decline in IQ is not recovered even if the teen stops using marijuana later in life.

The study also reveals that those who start using marijuana at a younger age (before the age of 18) have a greater chance of experiencing a drop in IQ.

The study was carried out on 1,037 people from New Zealand who were monitored from birth until age 38. During this period, they were assessed for IQ scores at the ages of 13 and 38.

In addition to IQ scores, the researchers also analyzed the participants’ drug use patterns.

The results of the study reveal that those who regularly used marijuana during their teenage years had a decrease in IQ scores by an average of 8 points.

Those who only used marijuana occasionally, had a slight decrease in IQ scores, but it was not significant. The IQ scores of those who never used marijuana remained constant.

Why Does Marijuana Use Affect IQ?

The hippocampus is the region of the brain responsible for forming new memories and learning.

The THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive component of marijuana, affects the hippocampus by interfering with the communication between brain cells. This can impact the brain’s ability to process new information, which could, in turn, impact IQ.

While the exact effect of marijuana on the brain is not fully understood, studies indicate that the hippocampus could be particularly vulnerable to the effects of marijuana.

Some experts believe that teenagers who use marijuana regularly during their formative years risk permanent damage to their brain’s cognitive abilities and memory retention.

What Are the Risks of Teen Marijuana Use?

In addition to the decline in IQ scores, teen marijuana use also comes with other risks. Teenagers who use marijuana are more likely to develop mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors and suffer from addiction to other substances, including other drugs and alcohol.

There is also a higher risk of dropping out of school and having a lower educational attainment among teens who use marijuana regularly. This can have a long-term impact on their future career prospects and quality of life.

Teen marijuana use also carries legal risks, as it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume marijuana, even in states where it has been legalized.

What Can Parents Do?

Parents play a vital role in preventing teen marijuana use. They can talk to their children about the risks associated with marijuana use and provide them with the necessary information to make informed decisions.

Parents can also monitor their children’s behavior and look out for signs of drug use, such as changes in mood, loss of interest in social activities, and decreased performance in school.

It is also important for parents to set clear rules and expectations regarding drug use and to enforce consequences for breaking those rules.

Parents can help their children build positive self-esteem and encourage them to make healthy choices and avoid risky behaviors.

Conclusion

The link between teen marijuana use and IQ drop is a cause for concern. While the debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana continues, it is important to acknowledge the risks associated with teen marijuana use.

Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to educate teenagers about the risks, provide the necessary support, and create policies that promote healthy choices and behaviors.