Introduction
The legalization of marijuana is a controversial topic that worries society. Opponents of marijuana legalization fear that the process will lead to increased use among teenagers. Proponents of legalization argue that it will allow teens to make informed choices, leading to fewer instances of drug use due to the desire to try the forbidden. I believe that legalization will not increase teen marijuana use, and the benefits of legalization outweigh the risks.
Arguments in Favor of Marijuana Legalization
The argument that marijuana legalization could increase teenage use stands for the fact that it will become more affordable and easier to buy. In addition, marijuana will no longer be associated with criminal behavior, which will make it easier for teenagers to take this step. The argument that legalization will not increase consumption lies in the fact that teens will be able to make more informed choices and be less likely to try the forbidden. Moreover, marijuana will become safer since the state will control it, and the risks of using low-quality products will be reduced. Both arguments are strong, but legalization is more likely to be beneficial.
The fears of opponents of legalization are refuted by scientific research. A study by Anderson et al. (879) concludes that legalization does not significantly increase adolescent consumption. In Washington state, there was a slight increase in marijuana use, which later decreased; in Colorado, the relationship was not confirmed (Anderson et al. 879).
According to more recent behavioral assessments, marijuana legalization was statistically associated with an 8% reduction in teenage use and a potential 9% reduction in frequent use (Anderson et al. 880). Thus, a slight increase in adolescent use can be expected, which will soon decline. The benefits of legalization in potential recreational use, reduced crime, and more government oversight outweigh these risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana may not be associated with an increase in teenage use. This figure may increase slightly at the beginning of the process and then return to the previous results. Greater state control minimizes the risks of low-quality products and allows teenagers to approach this choice more consciously. Thus, the legalization of marijuana in association with teenage use has more advantages than disadvantages.
Work Cited
Anderson, D. Mark, et al. “Association of Marijuana Laws with Teen Marijuana Use: New Estimates from the Youth Risk Behavior Surveys.” JAMA Pediatrics, vol. 173, no. 9, 2019, pp. 879-881.