Problem Statement: Marijuana Use As A Public Safety I 594562

Problem Statement: Marijuana Use as a Public Safety Issue

Drug and substance abuse is a serious public safety concern in many countries, particularly in the United States, a nation with high purchasing power and abundant resources. In 2014, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that 74% of all American adults had used drugs at some point, and 48% were active drug users, with 18% engaging in illicit drug use. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) emphasizes that drug and substance abuse impose significant economic and social costs on the country. These costs include approximately $740 billion annually related to mental health treatments, reduced productivity, and other societal impacts stemming from drug-related issues.

In addition to economic consequences, drug abuse severely impacts public safety. About 19.7 million Americans aged 12 and above face substance use disorders, with 75% battling disorders related to alcohol abuse and approximately 35% linked to illicit drugs. Moreover, studies indicate that millions of individuals, including 0.5 million adults and 1.2 million adolescents, suffer from co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Historically, alcohol and tobacco have been primary concerns; however, recent trends show a shift towards illicit substances, notably marijuana, which has seen increasing usage among youth and young adults.

According to NIDA (2018), over 11.8 million American young adults reported marijuana use in 2017, reflecting an 18% increase compared to the 2013-2015 period. This steady rise indicates that marijuana abuse may become a significant public health challenge comparable to the previous surges in alcohol and tobacco usage. Data from monitoring the future survey reveal that adolescents, including high school and middle school students, are the most active users of marijuana, and current usage rates are hitting historic highs in the context of America’s illicit drug use history. While some argue that marijuana possesses medicinal properties and may enhance memory among youths, the adverse effects, including social and behavioral problems, remain problematic (Subritzky, Pettigrew, & Lenton, 2017).

Increasing marijuana consumption among youth has been linked to several negative societal consequences, including elevated rates of peer delinquency, gang affiliation, arson, suicide, and violent acts such as mass shootings in schools and colleges (Makin et al., 2019). The proliferation of illicit marijuana use contributes to a decline in social cohesion and safety, fostered by rising delinquent behaviors and mental health issues. Evidence suggests that the young population's future is at risk, with rising chaos, violence, and instability predicted if current trends persist. Social institutions, including schools and community centers, are increasingly compromised by drug-influenced violence and disruption, making marijuana the foremost emerging threat to public safety among youth.

Understanding marijuana’s use, its effects, and implications on the American population is vital. However, to effectively curb its impact, it is essential to analyze the motivating factors behind marijuana use and examine the environmental behaviors fostering its proliferation. Addressing this rising menace requires comprehensive policies, community engagement, and targeted interventions to mitigate the adverse societal consequences associated with marijuana abuse and ensure a safer future for American youth and society at large.

Paper For Above instruction

Marijuana use has become a growing concern within the scope of public safety in the United States, driven by shifting legal landscapes, societal attitudes, and increasing access among youth populations. The implications of widespread marijuana consumption extend beyond individual health to encompass broader societal challenges, including crime rates, mental health issues, and violence. This paper explores the multifaceted problem of marijuana use as a public safety issue, examining its prevalence, causes, and societal effects, while proposing strategies for mitigation and policy intervention.

Historical trends reveal that drug abuse in America has traditionally centered around alcohol and tobacco. Nonetheless, recent data indicate a significant rise in illicit drug use, particularly marijuana. Statistics from NIDA highlight that over 11.8 million young adults used marijuana in 2017, representing a notable increase of 18% from previous years. These figures point to a worrying upward trajectory, especially among adolescents and young adults, the demographic most vulnerable to the adverse effects of drug abuse. The popularity of marijuana among youth is further substantiated by monitoring data, which demonstrate that middle and high school students are among the highest users, with usage rates reaching historic highs.

The increased prevalence of marijuana use among youth is associated with various negative outcomes. For instance, studies suggest that marijuana consumption correlates with an escalation in delinquent behaviors, including participation in gangs, arson, and violent crimes. Moreover, there is a well-documented link between marijuana use and mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis, which can exacerbate social instability (Subritzky et al., 2017). The societal ripple effects extend to increased school violence and mass shootings, events which have been historically associated with drug-induced behavioral disinhibition among young individuals (Makin et al., 2019).

One of the critical issues underlying marijuana abuse is its perception as a relatively harmless or medicinal substance. While advocates claim medicinal benefits and potential cognitive improvements, these perceived advantages are overshadowed by the documented risks, especially for developing brains. Research indicates that early marijuana use impairs memory, attention, and academic performance, contributing to poor life outcomes (Mead, 2019). Moreover, legalization in some states has inadvertently signaled societal approval, leading to increased accessibility and normalization among youth.

The environmental and social factors fostering marijuana use are complex. Peer pressure, family dynamics, socioeconomic status, and community environments influence an individual's likelihood of using drugs. Youths exposed to environments characterized by poverty, violence, or lack of access to educational opportunities are more prone to experiment with illicit substances. Additionally, the normalization of marijuana use through media campaigns and changing legal policies diminishes perceived risks, encouraging experimentation (Subritzky et al., 2017).

Addressing the rising problem of marijuana as a public safety issue necessitates a multifaceted approach. Policy reforms should focus on stringent regulation, especially regarding sale and distribution to minors. Educational campaigns targeting youth awareness about the real risks associated with marijuana are vital. Community programs can also play a role by providing recreational and educational alternatives to drug use, thereby reducing environmental risk factors. Law enforcement agencies need to adapt strategies to curb illegal possession and trafficking, while health services should prioritize treatment for substance use disorders and mental health comorbidities.

Internationally, countries like Canada and Uruguay offer models for balanced regulation, emphasizing harm reduction and preventive measures. Lessons from these experiences suggest that legal frameworks must be carefully crafted to minimize adverse societal impacts while respecting individual rights. Furthermore, ongoing research into the neurological and societal effects of marijuana will inform future policies, ensuring they remain evidence-based. In conclusion, combating marijuana use as a public safety issue requires coordinated efforts among policymakers, health professionals, educators, and communities to implement effective, sustainable strategies that protect future generations while respecting individual freedoms.

References

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• Subritzky, T., Pettigrew, S., & Lenton, S. (2017). Into the void: Regulating pesticide use in Colorado’s commercial cannabis markets. International Journal of Drug Policy, 42, 86-96.
• NIDA. (2018). Marijuana use among youth and young adults. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov
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