The Perspective of Teens on Marijuana Legalization

A RESEARCH PAPER

Presented to
The Faculty of
Iligan Computer Institute
Iligan City

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Subject
PRACTICAL RESEARCH 1

Cabaling, Timica
Cabarro, Sittie Nawal
Delos Santos, Blessy II
Domingo, Nashleigh
 CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Background of the Study

Marijuana causes many changes in any field including the form of opinion among Senior
High School students in any school. Marijuana is one of the most popular and known harmful
medicines in modern societies and in this generation because marijuana is sophisticatedly
designed to evoke people's curiosity. It is to amaze people, with marijuana and its mental and
physical effects.

Why is legalizing marijuana a problem?--The marijuana products of today are high in

potency and can reach 99% pure delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The THC in marijuana
causes the “high” and leads to addiction, mental illness, violence, crime, traffic deaths, and many
health and social problems. The proponents of marijuana use uniformly ignore research linking
marijuana use to psychosis and schizophrenia and acts of violence. The American Psychiatric
Association and other authorities report that current evidence supports, at a minimum, a strong
association of marijuana use with the onset of psychiatric disorders. A recent book by a former
New York Times reporter details the research showing that the chronic use of marijuana leads to
mental illness and violence.

According to this, Marijuana was legalized for adults in the U.S. state of Washington,
younger teens there perceived it to be less harmful and reported using it more, a new study
found. She noted that trying marijuana at a young age is tied to an increased risk of regular use
later on. Chronic use of marijuana may be tied to negative outcomes, such as psychosis and poor
financial status. Additionally, the proportion of kids reporting marijuana use in the previous
month rose 2 percent among eighth graders and about 4 percent among 10th graders over that
same period. (Seaman, 2016)

This study aims, to get the opinion of teens on the legalization of marijuana to see how
teens view marijuana these days and to measure how well the teens know about marijuana and
how it affects them. Mostly, people are prone to use marijuana for medication. Due to this
phenomenon, we choose to have research on it to determine the impact of legalizing marijuana
on users. Hence, the main objective of the study is to analyze cognitive changes and brain
activity in long-term marijuana users, depending on the pattern of consumption.

Hence, the study titled, “The perspective of teens on marijuana legalization” will be
conducted in the second semester of the school year 2022-2023.

Statement of the Problem

Marijuana has been regarded as a harmful plant that can endanger lives and is thought to
be nothing more than an extra problem to be dealt with in today's society.
1.) What is the current understanding of marijuana among teens?
2.) What role do parents and schools play on shaping teens’ views on marijuana legalization?
3.) How do you think the legalization of marijuana will influence the lives of teenagers in both
the short and long term?

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study was focused and limited only to determining the legalization of marijuana in
teenage. The study would only require limited personal information such as age, strand, grade
level, and opinion about legalizing marijuana. The primary subject of this research study will
cover the Senior High school students of Iligan Computer Institute of the city of Iligan for the
academic year 2022-2023. The scope of this study will be limited to Thirty (30) Teens

Significance of the Study

The study on the perspective of teens on the legalization of marijuana is significant
because it provides valuable insights into the attitudes and opinions of young people regarding a
highly controversial and complex issue. Understanding the perspectives of teens on marijuana
legalization is important for several reasons. In summary, this study can inform public policy,
education, health, and social and cultural implications of marijuana legalization on young people.
The Teens. This research can help teenagers learn more about the potential benefits and risks of
marijuana use, as well as the legal and social implications of legalization. This knowledge can
help them make informed decisions about their own behavior and beliefs. By understanding the
different perspectives on marijuana legalization, teens can develop better critical thinking skills
and make more informed decisions about their own behavior. This can also help identify
potential risk factors for substance abuse among teens and provide insights into effective
prevention strategies. This research can also empower teens to become advocates for policy
change and social justice issues related to marijuana legalization. Through participating in or
engaging with the research, teens can develop better communication skills and learn how to
express their opinions and perspectives effectively.

The Teachers: Teachers have access to a large pool of potential participants for the study. They
can help recruit teenagers who are willing to participate and provide necessary information to the
researcher. Teachers who work with teenagers have a unique understanding of their student’s
behavior, attitudes, and beliefs. This understanding can be helpful in designing surveys,
interviews, and other research instruments that are sensitive to the unique perspective of
teenagers. They can help ensure that the teenagers understand the purpose of the study and the
potential risks and benefits of participation. Overall, the involvement of teachers can be
beneficial to the research on the perspective of teens in the legalization of marijuana by helping
to ensure that the study is sensitive to the unique perspectives of teenagers and that the data
collected is accurate and complete.

The Parents. By understanding the perspective of their teens on marijuana legalization, parents
can have more informed conversations with their children about the potential benefits and risks
of marijuana use. This research can provide parents with insights into effective prevention
strategies for substance abuse among teenagers, as well as potential risk factors to look out for. It
can also help parents develop a better understanding of the legal and social implications of
marijuana legalization, as well as the different perspectives on the issue. This also provides
parents with more information about how to effectively communicate with their children about
sensitive topics, such as drug use. Lastly, this research can also empower parents to become
advocates for policy change and social justice issues related to marijuana legalization.
The Future Researchers. Research on the perspective of teens on the legalization of marijuana
can help identify areas where research is needed, including potential risk factors for substance
abuse among teens and effective prevention strategies. This research can provide insights into
new research questions or hypotheses related to marijuana use and legalization, as well as
potential avenues for future research. By examining the methods used in the research, future
researchers can learn from both the strengths and limitations of the study, and develop more
effective research methodologies. It can also contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the
fields of substance abuse prevention, psychology, sociology, and public policy. Lastly, this
research can inform the development of evidence-based interventions to prevent substance abuse
among teens and promote healthy decision-making.

CHAPTER 2
Review & Related Literature Studies
This chapter aimed to present the related topics of the study about The Perspective of Teens on
marijuana legalization.

Foreign Studies
Canada is set to become the second country in the world to federally legalize cannabis for
recreational use in 2018. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal government has set out to
protect young Canadians by keeping marijuana out of their hands. Key questions to consider
include what young people need protection from, and will the federal government's plan increase
or decrease these potential harms. Canadian youth have ranked second highest for past-month
cannabis use out of 40 countries. The average age of cannabis use initiation varies, with the 2015
Canadian Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs Survey reporting a median initiation age of 17 years and
the 2014–15 Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs Survey reporting a mean initiation
age of 14.2 years. The federal government has promised to adopt a public health-focused model
of production and sale to minimize harm. The government's plan aims to provide a safe and
responsible cannabis production and supply system, remove profits from organized crime
groups, and reduce burdens on the criminal justice system. The Cannabis Act sets a minimum
age for possession, purchase, and sale, with provinces and territories having the authority to set
higher minimums. (Erickson, 2018)

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug globally, with 192 million people aged 15-
64 years using it. The Global Burden of Disease study estimated the age-standardized rate of
cannabis use disorder in 2017 was 289.7 per 100,000 population. In Canada, the prevalence of
cannabis use and CUDs has increased over the past decade, paralleling changes in the legal and
political climate favoring legalization. People who use cannabinoids may seek various effects,
but can also experience adverse physical and psychological consequences. Recreational cannabis
use has become increasingly decriminalized and legalized in many jurisdictions, but illicit sales
and use of cannabis continue to be prevalent. Proponents of legalization have emphasized the
potential to eradicate the marijuana black market, improve quality and safety control, increase
tax revenues, improve medical cannabis availability, and lower gang-related drug violence.
Opponents have stressed concerns about addictive potential, second-hand cannabis exposure,
mental illnesses, and alterations in perception and attitudes towards cannabis. To date, no
reviews have explored the implications of cannabis legalization in jurisdictions where medical or
recreational marijuana use is permitted. ( Environ. Res. Public Health 2019)

The development of effective cannabis education and prevention programming to reduce

cannabis-related harms for youth has been identified as an urgent public health priority. In
Canada, the lifetime prevalence of cannabis use was 29% for adolescents ages 15–19 and 54%
for young adults aged 20–24 in 2015. Recent Canadian analyses suggest that only 2% of those
who have used cannabis experience serious health and social harm from their use. Research
suggests that problematic use of cannabis and other drugs is higher among disadvantaged or
marginalized populations, and the presence of vulnerabilities within families is associated with
earlier onset of use for youth and more frequent use that leads to dependence. The debate has
centered on setting the legal age for cannabis use, with some suggesting that youth under the age
of 25 should abstain from use and should be excluded from the legalized market. The
Government of Canada's Federal Task Force on Cannabis Legalization and Regulation proposed
a 'public health approach' to regulation to ensure harmonization with the legal drinking age. Most
Canadian provinces and territories have recommended setting the age of access at 18 or 19 to
mirror the legal drinking age. Government and public health entities have begun to develop
resources to prevent and educate youth on cannabis.( Rebecca J. Haines-Saah,2019)

Local Studies
House Bill No. 6517 seeks to legalize and regulate the medical use of cannabis, which
has been confirmed to have beneficial and therapeutic uses for patients with debilitating diseases.
It also declares that the State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health
development, ensuring balance in the national drug control program for patients with debilitating
medical conditions. The bill mandates the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Drug
Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to be the principal regulatory agencies in the access and use of
medical cannabis. The Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee (MCAC) is chaired by the DOH
Secretary and includes three healthcare practitioners, two experts in the regulation of controlled
substances for medical use, and two representatives from a nationally recognized organization of
patients with debilitating medical conditions. The DOH and PDEA have access to the MCCC's
records and premises and are authorized to question employees, investigate any matter, and
determine violations. The FDA must test all medical cannabis to determine its potency,
consistency, and effective use. The bill prohibits qualified patients from possessing or smoking
cannabis and to utilize it for purposes other than for treatment of debilitating diseases. Upon
conviction, violators of the bill or it is implementing rules and regulations, including medical
cannabis patient caregivers and MCCCs, shall be penalized with a fine of P500,000 to P10
million. The DOH shall authorize the University of the Philippines National Institute of Health,
the Health Sciences Center of the UP System, and the Philippine Institute of Traditional and
Alternative Health Care to conduct research on the medical use of cannabis. A Joint
Congressional Oversight Committee shall be created to conduct a regular review of the
implementation. (congress.gov.ph, 2019)

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said he approves of the use of medical marijuana
for research purposes only. The House bill to legalize and regulate the medical use of cannabis
was approved by the House health committee in September. Duque clarified that using medical
marijuana for research purposes is already allowed by the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act
of 2002. The Dangerous Drugs Board must prescribe implementing guidelines for proper
cultivation, culture, handling, experimentation, and disposal. Philippine medical groups oppose
the House bill on medical marijuana, but Duque believes it is still too risky to use. He believes
synthetic forms of medical cannabis have benefits, but the risks outweigh the benefits. He
believes it should be in its pharmaceutical form, as it is uncontrolled and subject to abuse,
addiction, and other complications.(Rappler.com,2017)

Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III thinks the use of medical marijuana is already
legal, explaining that, under the Republic Act No. 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, a
provision permits patients to apply for a "compassionate special permit" from the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) allowing unregistered drugs in the country to be used for medication,
guidelines for which are already in place. However, as marijuana is illegal in the Philippines, no
registered dispensaries or outlets carry such medication. An October 2017 report from CNN
Philippines showed that the FDA received an average of 50 applications monthly for
compassionate use special permits and that the FDA had received only one application to import
cannabis oil since permits were first issued in 1992. (web.apsaseed.org, 2019)
 The Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act was stalled on 11th March when
President Rodrigo Duterte reversed himself on the issue. Bill No. 180l was passed by the House
of Representatives in a second and third reading on Jan 29, 2019. It mandates a number of
conditions for treatment, including cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord damage,
post-traumatic stress disorder, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, and admission to hospice care.
Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, a former president and co-sponsor of the bill, vouchsafed the
effectiveness of medical cannabis. Penalties for possession of between five and ten grams range
from 20 years to life imprisonment and fines from P400,000 to P500,000. (philstar.com, 2015)

Related Studies
The recent legalization of nonmedical marijuana use in several U.S. states has unknown
implications for those who are actively parenting. This study examined parents' reactions to
marijuana legalization and changes in attitudes and behaviors over time. Data were from a
gender-balanced, ethnically diverse sample of 395 parents in Washington State who were
participating in the longitudinal Seattle Social Development Project. Participants were
interviewed 15 times between 1985 (age 10) and 2014 (age 39). Adult nonmedical marijuana use
was legalized in Washington in 2012 and retail outlets opened in 2014. Results showed (1) one
third of parents incorrectly believed the legal age of nonmedical marijuana use to be 18; (2) a
significant increase in approval of adult marijuana use and decrease in perceived harm of regular
use; (3) wide opposition to teen use and use around one's children; and (4) substantial increases
in the frequency of use and marijuana use disorder among parents who used. Despite increased
acceptance and frequency of adult use, parents remain widely opposed to teen use but need facts
and strategies for talking with their children about marijuana. (Rick Kosterman & others,2016)

Federal law has prohibited the use and distribution of marijuana in the US since 1937, but
states have been experimenting with marijuana liberalization policies for the past five decades.
As of January 1, 2016, 21 states have decriminalized certain marijuana possession offenses, 26
have legalized medical marijuana use, and 16 have adopted cannabidiol (CBD)-only laws.
However, some states have implemented combinations of each of these policies, such as the five
states currently legalizing recreational marijuana use. The majority of US states have moved
away from a strict prohibition position towards marijuana, driven by rising state budgetary costs,
growing scientific evidence of the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids, and strained state
budgets. However, the scientific literature has been slow to develop, leading many to conclude
that previous liberalization policies are harmless. Recent surveys show a shift in favor of
legalization. This article reviews the existing literature on the effects of decriminalization and
medical marijuana laws on marijuana use and marijuana use disorders. It is important to consider
the complexities of these policies, the populations examined, and the measures of use considered
before we can truly understand the impacts of marijuana liberalization policies. Three reasons for
caution in drawing conclusions from the mixed empirical evidence are that the literature has
largely treated both decriminalization and medical marijuana policies as simple dichotomous
choices, and that research has been slow to consider the extent to which these changes in policies
influence the method by which the typical user consumes marijuana. (Rosalie Liccardo Pacula
and Rosanna Smart, 2017)

This study found that recreational marijuana laws were associated with an 8% decrease in
marijuana use overall among high school students when compared to before legalization, and a
9% drop in frequent marijuana use that was self-reported by teenagers. There was no significant
association with marijuana use before or after legalization for medical purposes, but the
researchers gave credence to the suggestion that it is more difficult for teenagers to obtain
marijuana from licensed dispensaries after legalization. Anderson's research found that
recreational marijuana laws have a negative association with teen use, consistent with the relative
cost of selling to underage individuals. The AAP has been clear on its stance against legalization,
advocating for decriminalization. (Rachael Zimlich, 2019)

Definition of terms
In order to have a common understanding of this study, the following terms were defined
operationally.

Marijuana. In the study, this term referred to smoked or consumed as a psychoactive (mind-
altering) drug.

Perspective. In the study, this term referred to A point of view as a way of looking at something.

Legalization. In the study, this term referred to as Lawsuit is the taking action of making
something illegal by law.

Awareness. In the study, this term referred to Knowledge, concern, and informed interest in a
situation.

Theoretical Framework
This study is anchored on the following theories:Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB).The
TPB is a social psychological theory:

The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is a cognitive theory by Azjen (1985) that
proposes that an individual’s decision to engage in a specific behavior, The TPB suggests that
behavioral intentions are influenced by three key factors: attitudes, subjective norms, and
perceived behavioral control. Attitudes refer to teens' evaluations of marijuana legalization,
whether positive, negative, or neutral. Subjective norms encompass the perceived social pressure
from peers, parents, and other influential individuals regarding marijuana legalization. Perceived
behavioral control pertains to teens' beliefs in their ability to navigate the issue, considering
factors like knowledge, legal understanding, and awareness of risks or benefits. By employing
the TPB, researchers can gain insights into the underlying factors shaping teens' perspectives on
marijuana legalization and understand how attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral
control contribute to their intentions and behaviors in this context.

Conceptual Framework
 The perspective/
Opinion of teenagers Face to Face Awareness about the
on legalizing Interview effect of marijuana
marijuana

Figure 1 Conceptual Framework

By using the face to face interview method we get to have the perspective of teenagers
on the legalization of marijuana. The interviews highlighted the role of curiosity and accessibility
in teenagers' perspectives on marijuana legalization. Many participants expressed that the current
legal status of marijuana creates a sense of intrigue and curiosity. They argued that if marijuana
were legalized, the allure of trying something forbidden might diminish. However, some
teenagers believed that legalization could lead to easier access, potentially increasing
experimentation among their peers. When discussing the topic of marijuana legalization,
knowledge and awareness emerged as crucial factors. The interviews revealed varying levels of
understanding among teenagers regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with
marijuana use. Some participants emphasized the importance of comprehensive education
programs that provide accurate information about marijuana, its effects, and responsible usage.
They believed that increased awareness would enable teenagers to make informed decisions
regarding marijuana use, irrespective of its legal status.

CHAPTER 3
 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study aims to investigate the opinions, attitudes, and beliefs of teenagers regarding
the legalization of marijuana. This research seeks to provide valuable insights into how young
individuals perceive the legalization of marijuana, considering its potential impact on their lives
and the broader society.

RESEARCH DESIGN
The research design for this study will be a qualitative research design. Qualitative
research is an appropriate methodology for exploring the attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions of
teenagers regarding a complex and sensitive topic like marijuana legalization. Semi-structured
interviews will be used as the primary data collection method, as they for in depth exploration of
participants' perspective and experiences.

DATA COLLECTION TECHNIQUES

Regardless of which qualitative research design you adopted for your study.The most
commonly use for data collection techniques are the interview technique.Using interview we can
use this opportunity to know there opinion regarding to this study.We interviewed the students
from their school, we asked questions through good manners.And we were there in their
classroom, we cleaned it to be formal and open their lights, we asked our questions regarding our
research, we sent others out to be quiet and understand each other.

RESEARCH INSTRUMENT
Our interview schedule was semi-structured. The questionnaire was designed to open-
ended questions. Open-ended questions allow respondents to provide detailed and nuanced
responses, providing deeper insights into their perspectives.These questions can explore
teenagers' opinions, attitudes, and beliefs about marijuana legalization, as well as their personal
experiences or knowledge related to the topic. For proper interpretation of their opinions on
marijuana legalization, it is essential to understand their degree of knowledge. You may
determine how knowledgeable teenagers are about marijuana by asking them about it. Any
knowledge gaps or erroneous beliefs they may have can be found with the assistance of this
information. It is essential to comprehend their degree of education in order to appropriately
assess their opinions on marijuana legalization.Finding out what kids know about marijuana
might help identify the influences on their opinions. Their classmates, families, schools, the
media, or personal experiences could all have a role. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to
drug disinformation, thus understanding these effects can assist contextualize their opinions and
offer insights into the elements that affect their ideas. You can find out whether they have any
common misconceptions or beliefs regarding marijuana by questioning them about it. This
information can guide activities or interventions in education that attempt to provide correct
information and encourage responsible decision-making.

INFORMANTS
The target population for this research will be teenagers aged between 13 to 19 years. A
representative sample will be selected using a combination of probability sampling techniques,
such as stratified random sampling. The sample size will be determined based on statistical
considerations to ensure the reliability and generalizability of the findings.
We chose them because they fit into the study that were going to conduct. Since we are going to
get the perspective of teens so basically we are going to get the data from teens. Our respondents
are limited to Thirty(30) Teens. We conducted the study in Iligan Computer Institute of the city
of Iligan.

DATA ANALYSIS
We read the data and the answers of the respondents and we found out that Some
teenagers expressed concerns about the potential health risks associated with marijuana use,
particularly among developing brains. They emphasized the need for strict regulations and age
restrictions to minimize harm and protect teenagers from potential negative effects. Teenagers
have differing views on the criminalization of marijuana. Some argued that legalizing marijuana
could reduce the burden on the criminal justice system and redirect resources toward more
pressing issues. Some teenagers acknowledged the potential medicinal benefits of marijuana and
support its legalization for medical purposes. They may advocate for rigorous research, proper
regulation, and safe access to medical marijuana for patients who could benefit from its use.
We analyzed the provided information by identifying and extracting key themes and patterns
present in the respondents' answers. I carefully reviewed the information provided, which
included the respondents' answers regarding their perspectives on the legalization of marijuana.I
grouped the respondents' answers based on their alignment with these themes. Answers
expressing concerns about health risks were categorized under the first theme. Answers
discussing views on criminalization were categorized under the second theme. Lastly, answers
acknowledging the medicinal benefits of marijuana were categorized under the third theme. I
provided an interpretation of each theme based on the information presented. For example, under
the theme of concerns about health risks, I highlighted the respondents' focus on potential
negative effects on developing brains and their call for strict regulations and age restrictions.
Similarly, under the theme of views on criminalization, I explained the diverse opinions
expressed by the respondents, with some advocating for the reduction of the burden on the
criminal justice system. I summarized the key findings from the analysis, highlighting the
identified themes and providing a brief explanation of each one.The tool that we’re going to use
in data analysis is a Qualitative analysis software such as MAXQDA. MAXQDA is a robust and
user-friendly qualitative data analysis software that helps researchers efficiently manage and
analyze qualitative and mixed-methods data. Its wide range of tools and features supports
researchers in extracting meaningful findings and gaining deeper insights from their qualitative
research projects.