Brain development clearly becomes hindered by the use of substances, including but not limited to marijuana; so legalizing marijuana, like many are saying, is not a wise decision for current and future generations.

There are multiple studies that indicate how marijuana is one of the many drugs that alter brain chemistry. Without getting into any technical medical terminology, and simply from the behavioral science perspective, marijuana is a secondary “gateway drug” (after alcohol) which lessens human inhibition. With the lessened inhibition after the use of marijuana, dangerous and illegal activities are more likely to occur.

Studies also show that the use of marijuana interferes with learning and memory functions. Clearly, policy makers would be unwise to legalize marijuana.

Greg R. Stacy, M.Ed.

Denmark