Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know
- Online Tool
- Scientifically Informed
Use this resource to learn about marijuana – what is is, and how and why people use it. The information provides you with insight on why it is harmful to the developing brain, and how you can talk to your child and prevent them from using it.
It’s best to talk about drugs when children are young—when drug use often begins—but it’s never too late to start the conversation.
How To Use
Scroll through the information using the “Next” tab at the bottom of the page or use the Contents Box located on the left side to click on a specific category to learn more. The resource covers the following topics:
- Talking to your kids: communicating the risks
- FAQs about marijuana
- Starting the conversation
- Other resources
An option to download booklet PDF version of the content is also available on the right side of the page.
Who Should Use
Anyone who wants to learn more about marijuana and its impact on the developing brain will find this resource helpful, especially parents of young adolescents (12-16); and parents of older teens/young adults (17-25).
Scientific Background
This resource is was created by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and is widely used by health care providers, families and others needing information on addiction and treatment. NIDA is represented under the National Institutes of Health with a mission to advance science on the causes and consequences of drug use and addiction and to apply that knowledge to improve individual and public health.
There are multiple publications and citations that reference youth marijuana use, its impact on the developing brain and the importance of prevention, including the following:
