- NEW!
by Anonymous on January 20th, 2007
I'm sure I'm going to get rated waaay down for this, but here goes anyway.
Marijuana is not a "dangerous drug". The only really bad thing it has going for it is the fact that it's illegal. It's also got a bad rap as being a "gateway" drug - opening up the door for people to start using hard drugs - simply because it's the drug that most people try first (it's cheaper and easier to get a hold of than cocaine, heroin, meth, etc). Not everyone is going to go on to use harder drugs, either, just because they have tried smoking marijuana.
I'd suggest explaining to your daughter how to be responsible with her marijuana use and allowing her to continue ocassional use at home (hey - it's better than having her lie to you about where she's going so that she can smoke pot and get busted, isn't it?).
The fact of the matter is, she's already decided that she's going to smoke. You forbidding it is only going to make her want to do it even more (to spite you for not respecting her decisions or understanding her point of view).
Principles of Responsible Cannabis Use
http://www.norml.org/index.cfm?Group_ID=3417
by 1Simmy on January 19th, 2007
Really make her explain WHY she shouldn't do it.
I mean if i was doing it, I'd obviously know I'm doing wrong, but not understand the full extent of where I'm going wrong.
Do some research on the net e.g. on where just her smoking marijauna can lead to bigger more addictive worse off drugs. (Print this off to her and make her go through it with you)
Ask her, if she would allow her children to do this? Ask her to put herself in your position as a mother.
Educate her.
Let her know that there will be consequences for which she has done, than lay them down e.g. no longer trusting her. looking through all her stuff and searching to see if there is any more marijuana, and if there is taking it away.
I would place less emphasis on this point: to let her know the label that is attached to people who do this.
Lastly let her know how this has made you feel. & that it's not easy stopping but you'll be there to support her.
by crystal1 on January 20th, 2007
My honest truth is that..
I have never seen any one of my friends stop smoking pot just because their parents caught them or because their parents grounded them
Unless they have only tried it a few times
There is only one way to be positive is to violate their privacy or keep them in the house for the rest of their lives--other than that you have to trust them
maybe inform them on exactly what it does to you and how it can affect your health that might motivate them to stop
..good luck
by Anonymous on January 20th, 2007
As a smoker myself -
I would tell her the negatives.. acknowledge that it may make her feel good, and fit in... but here is the flip side
Never having any money - how can she look good if she spends all her money on drugs (you can't afford clothes, makeup, hairstyling)
Not being able to communicate with others about your life as you know smoking is not really acceptable to general people that you meet - so it is isolating you to hang out only with other people that take drugs - no promise of future there.
You can't remember anything - if she has any aspirations school wise - it will be much harder to achieve them when you have no motivation to learn and can't remember it anyway.
People surrounding her who will be taking drugs will be erratic for her to get along with, the drugs that they take may make then violent or very hard to speak to - no fun in friends like that.
I hope that helps a bit.
Good luck
by Tinkabelle on January 19th, 2007
You didn't mention how old your daughter is which makes this kind of hard to answer, but I think it'd be easier to have a sit down and talk to her about the effects of smoking ANYthing. The real question that should be the deal breaker is, "Why are you smoking it in the first place? What does it DO for you?"
We all know that there's no benefit to smoking marijuana- much less anything else. If she can't answer this question seriously and just gives the infamous "I don't know," then it should be easy to punish her and ensure her that she WON'T be doing it anymore. The drug is, in fact, illegal so bringing up the dangers that she could get herself into might shake her up some at the thought of doing jail time just to get high.
You could even make up a story of an "old friend" of yours from highschool that got in trouble for smoking. Good luck with that, teenagers are creative, she probably won't make it easy. The best thing to remember is that YOU are the mother, YOU'RE the enforcer- no matter what she says :)
by debsmooth on January 24th, 2007
She won't. Sorry. It had to be said. As one other poster said above me, you will need to lay some ground rules about its use.
1) Never in the house and it cannot be kept in the house. Social smoking only.
2) Never drive on it or anything else. You will come get her at any time of the day or night rather than see her attempt to drive on any substance legal or illegal.
3) Never get involved in the commerce angle. No selling.
4) Never in school. 100% clear-minded while in school or you WILL ship her off to a special school with large gates.
Basically permission to party at other people's parties and that's ALL. If she learns to trust you then you will know she is always safe. You can also explain about drugs testing in the US. If she wants a job she'll need to pass. Sad but true. Intermittent use is the only way for her to continue her toking ways on your watch.
by DavidHume on January 24th, 2007
Keep it in perspective. Teenagers are inherently rebellious and maybe this is her way of rebelling. There are worse things she could do, like getting pregnant. There are also far worse drugs out there than marijuana; crack and even the legal drugs (alcohol and tobacco) are far more dangerous.
Treat it as a phase she is passing through, and remember she will change as she grows up. Your relationship is more important at the end of the day and you mustn't do anything that will destroy the trust between you. Treat her with love and understanding and I'm sure you and she will weather the storm. Good luck!
by HappyJeans on January 20th, 2007
I think it's difficult to stop her from doing it if she really wants to, I would completly disagree with the advice to restrict her/ ground her/ check up on her etc. If you do those things she is so much more likely to rebel against your authority and do it more, get more in with 'the bad crowd', sneak out, or learn how to hide it from you. If she's grounded except for school, shes more likely to skip school, or be high in school.
I'm 17 myself and have smoked solid 3 times, and weed once. After that i didn't do it any more, i wanted to know what it was like, and decied MYSELF that it was stupid, and the weed made me very depressed. I smoked it these few times becasue I WANTED TO. I was never pressured, it wasn't even particularly readily available, and most of my friends don't do it. I wanted to know what it was like, and wasn't doing it to be rebelious. I had nothing to prove by doing it, continuing it, or stopping it. So it was very easy for me to stop.
My mum is very accepting of things like this, I'm pretty sure she's aware of the fact i've done it, but she never got cross about it. When i was younger she admitted to trying it once, throwing it up, and never doing it again. She said she hoped i would never make the same mistake, but wouldn't be suprised if i did. This meant that it was completely my loss if i chose to do it, and it wouldn't be hurting her. (The harder you push a teenager in one direction, the hardr they will push the other way.)
I go out to parties and get drunk, however, becasue my mum is so laid back, i don't feel the need to hide it from her, so she would be aware if it did start to become a problem. (If you get to a position where your daughter is hiding it from you, you will never know if it gets out of hand)
I understand it is difficult to see your daughter doing something which you know is dangerous, however, no-one has ever died directly from taking cannabis. If it's only something she does occasionally, in a safe place, with friends she trusts and she doesn't feel that she needs to carry it on, or she will be 'giving in to you' (I can't stress this enough) she will probably work through it, and realise it's something she doesn't need to do. If however, you are open with each other (this depends on how your relationship is with her at the moment, my mum knows EVERYTHING about me, and i honestly believe our relationship is like this becasue she treats me like a friend and equal, and i know i can go to her about anything, without her freaking out. Actually, this means i think about thins more carefully, becasue i don't want to dissapoint her, rather than hiding it, i don't do it.)you will be able to see if it becomes a problem. If you notice she needs to smoke everyday, or she is using other drugs, it's imparing her schoolwork etc, then you are in a much better position to say to her that you are worried, and get her help.
Please don't come down on her to hard, the more alienated she is, the more she will do the things you don't want her to. Be accepting, be her friend and let it be known that even though you don't support it,if she ever gets into trouble, you will be there to help her without being cross, because her safety and happyness are the most important things to you.
by cristnalyn on January 19th, 2007
You could try restricting her activities and make her build your trust again. Also do random drug tests on her. When she passes cleanly make sure to praise praise praise. Tell her how proud you are that she is respecting herself enough to stay clean. Do something special for her for staying clean for a long time.
Sometimes kids do drugs just to impress friends. If they have a way to get out of it by saying "Man I would love to join but my Mom drug tests me." Then they can get out of it without feeling like a "loser" under peer pressure.
Make sure the tests are random because there are many ways to fool the tests. Most importantly have open and honest conversations with her. If you dabbled in your youth be honest about it. She needs to know that you are not looking down on her but you are concerned for her.
by lizvelrene on February 20th, 2007
A lot of people just don't think there's anything wrong with using marijuana. It's certainly very helpful to some people who have chronic painful conditions. I've never done it myself, but I know plenty of otherwise-law-abiding, productive members of society who smoke the occassional joint without dropping dead or murdering anybody. I guarantee your daughter probably knows a lot of kids who are considered by adults to be "model students" or just normal kids that secretly use marijuana, and that will probably demolish any argument you try to make about how bad it is for her.
But of course while your daughter is a minor and in your custody, you are liable for her actions. Marijuana is illegal, and there can be consequences for both your daughter and you as her parent if she were to be caught. I feel that this is the angle to approach this from.
You may know that your daughter would not respond well to an approach emphasizing how BAD and WRONG marijuana is, or at least I'm guessing that from your phrasing of the question. What may be more effective would be for you to let her know that, while in a few years she will be an adult and can do what she wants, right now she is living under your care and she HAS TO FOLLOW THE LAW. If she protests that the law is stupid (and my feeling is that this is arguable), acknowledge that sometimes rules are unfair. But you care about her future and don't want to see her throw that away for a few hours of pleasure. Some actual punishments for posession of marijuana might be useful as well.
by tomsims on January 20th, 2007
You will need to sit down with her and set some limits and accountability proceedures that neither of you will like. She will not like them for obvious reasons. You will not for three main reasons:
1) She is going to call you things that hurt you.
2) It is going to take a lot of effort and attention.
3) You are going to feel "mean" and grieve the loss of your trusting relationship with her.
Tell her that you are doing this because you love her. She will act like she doesn't believe you, but don't get flustred. She knows now or will know later.
Don't expect that she will see the logic of your reasoning, but give it to her anyway - once or twice. After that, revert to the old adages like, "because I said so," and "when you are on your own, you can make your own decisions about these thing, but for now, I am responsible for you and these are the rules."
Ask her if there are things going on in her life that she needs to talk about. Be sensitive to the inner turmoils that may be causing her to rebel. Do not do this as a substitute for discipline and acountability, but as a complement to them.
Faciliatate her talking to someone she can trust and open up to if she is willing.
Keep loving her and don't give up. Also, do not lose your resolve.
You have my prayers and encouragement.
by bunceee on January 19th, 2007
That's a tough one. I would ground her, not letting her go anywhere except school. Then let her have friends over, this way she'll forge relationships with people who don't get high. Good luck, teenagers are made to make us crazy.
by bhawk89 on July 2nd, 2007
its her choice to smoke the thing she did wrong was not telling u about it and atleast shes not doing heavy duty drugs like crack ect just talk to her about it
by Th3 Last Sin on June 5th, 2007
Mary Jane isn't a drug at all, its a herb. People smoke it for different reasons, for example. I smoke to calm my nerves, and if my mom catches me thats exactly what I'll tell her. Weed isn't bad for you. It actually can be good for you. It's all the other things you have to be worried about bro. I'm 17 and smoke, but I'll never do other drugs. Drinking is actually more harmful then smoking bud. Sorry if you are not looking for something like this for your answer. But alot of people think weed is bad, and I had to let you know it's not.
by Nobody56 on April 29th, 2007
Tell her that weed is O.K. occasionally. However,don't let her smoke that cheap brown crap, the kind that you have to smoke a giant reefer just to catch a nasty fuzz buzz. Buy her some good sensi and explain to her that one or two tokes every once in a while won't kill you. Smoking cheap weed joints will clog your lungs up worse than those nasty cigarettes.
by EyePod on April 25th, 2007
Gannett News Service
On a typical weekday, stockbroker Irvin Rosenfeld has a marijuana cigarette before work, then goes to his firm's smoking area for another after he gets to the office. By day's end, he usually has smoked more than a half-dozen joints -- and handled millions of dollars' in clients' holdings.
There's nothing illegal about it. Rosenfeld, 54, of Fort Lauderdale, has a condition that causes benign tumors in the long bones of his body. After trying to control pain by taking narcotics such as Dilaudid, he persuaded the U.S. government to put him in a test program that gives marijuana to people with certain illnesses. His pain is now manageable, he says.
"I've smoked 10 to 12 marijuana cigarettes a day for 25 years," says Rosenfeld, adding he gets no euphoric effect from the drug. "All my clients know I use it. Without it, I wouldn't be able to work." His firm, Newbridge Securities, supports his use of marijuana and says it hasn't hurt his performance.
In Florida, Rosenfeld is an exception to state law that bans marijuana's use in any situation. But at a time when the use of medical marijuana is expanding -- this month, New Mexico became the 12th state to allow it -- the issue is raising a range of ethical and liability questions for employers across the nation.
Some companies, wary of marijuana's impact on employee performance, continue to fire those who test positive for the drug, even when its use is sanctioned by their state for medical purposes.
Those companies include Columbia Forest Products, a manufacturer of hardwoods based in Oregon, one of the states that allows medical marijuana. Even as the company maintains its zero-tolerance policy toward drug use, it has faced legal action because its company rules conflict with Oregon's medical marijuana law.
A few companies, such as Newbridge Securities, have embraced the notion of employees using medical marijuana at work.
Meanwhile, there are questions about whether medical marijuana laws would offer any protection to employers if a worker who used marijuana to treat pain wound up injuring others or making a mistake on the job. It's unclear whether such an incident has occurred.
"The rights of an employer to ensure productivity and safety around machinery and on the job has to take precedence," says Mark Levitt, a labor and employment lawyer in Tampa. "The use of marijuana has an effect on employees' ability to perform. That's a big concern for employers."
by illimitato_hustla on April 25th, 2007
don't allow it but don't lie about it either, if you try to tell her that if she gets caught with marijuana then the police will come and put crime scene tape around your house and confiscate everything you own (like my parents did lol) then she will never believe anything you have to say, tell her, okay its not gonna kill you but driving impaired could, it can keep you out of schools, groups, sports or from getting a job and it is illegal and can cost you a lot of money and state punishment if you get caught, when i was 15 i was put on probation after my stepmother called the cops on me for the bottom of a blunt and i had to pay lot of fines and had a 7 o clock curfew while all my friends were out i also missed my junior prom and couldn't get my license until a year after everyone else, so those are more reasonable reasons not to smoke, plus its not that terrible but it is unproductive and can affect your school work lessen you motivation and is not going to get you anywhere
oh yeah don't do what my stepmother did because i later began selling to get out of her house the day i turned 18 and was eventually caught and we currently still have restraining orders on each other
by EyePod on March 4th, 2007
tell her Thank you for Pot Smoking and keep her crack shut
by EyePod on March 4th, 2007
I wouldnt worry about her smoking grass when the most deadly drugs are avaliable by prescription.the enablers being the American public which tries to make marijuana look dangerous but offer far more dangerous drugs like pain killers and tranquilizers. i would tell her too much of anything is bad and any drug thats manufactored is far more dangerous than any plant.cigarettes in my opinion are far more dangerous than marijuana and i know 65 year olds who smoked the stuff all their natural born life and they are sharp as a tack.so boo hoo to your memory loss wait till your ass gets alzhiemers.
by Yukiko on March 4th, 2007
You can do a little research on all the effects of marijuana, such as addiction and memory/learning impairment (not to mention the fact that it's illegal). At least try to get her to be as safe and responsible as possible with it, and show her that you're still there for her and love her, since rejection can make any problem worse. If she begins to go down the wrong path and lose control there are many rehab and therapy options you can choose.
by peterpatch on February 20th, 2007
Morally your daughter owns her body and therefore is responsible for what she puts in it and what it does to other people as a result. However the stuff is illegal in the US therefore I would say do what you want with your body but don't do it under my roof or on my property. I would say that if you get in trouble then you will suffer the consequences of legal repercussions from the state. I would explain what could happen and that this is not something she will be able to cry home to mommy/daddy about, it is serious and she will be punished by the law.
My personal point of view is that marijuana makes you laugh, makes you tired and makes you hungry. It never made me want to hurt people so who cares.
by Divergent_Philosophy on January 26th, 2007
I'm not going to weigh in on this from a "for or against" marijuana viewpoint--that's obviously being done to death here.
Instead, I'm going to attack it from a parenting perspective.
Parents are ultimately the final authority on how their child is raised. It is for them to decide what they think is right and wrong, and how to translate this to their kids. Unfortunately, they are also a voice among many in the world: media, friends, and various other aspects of our society vie for your daughter's attention--and to a young person eager to find their place and stake their claim in the world, the last person they wish to turn to is the parent.
So, what do we do? We have to approach them as if they were an adult--as if they were our peers. I know, it sounds ridiculous, but hear me out.
There are many ways which you can steer a conversation in order to make the child understand your point of view, and even come to agree with you--all while seeming permissive to the child. Make the child feel that their input has a chance to sway you towards their side. This will put them in a receptive mood for compromise or reason.
So, we have a discussion with the child. We ask a few tough questions and maintain an open mind toward the needs of the child. Hopefully, this will force the child to see your view as well.
Why do you want to smoke?
How does it make you feel?
Why do you think your parents would rather you not smoke?
Note the subtle difference between "rather" and "require"--again putting the discussion in the light that your opinion could be swayed. Another tactic that you may approach is sharing any bad experiences you or your spouse may have had with drugs. You may not want your child to know you've had any (if indeed you had) experience with drugs, but once again, we are trying to place the child in a mood that is receptive to reality and reason.
On the flip side of things--depending on how educated you are about the use of marijuana--you may decide to work towards some compromise. In just a few short minutes of research on the internet you could read about alternatives in the use of marijuana, the health effects both long and short-term, and any benefits that may exist. You may decide that since you cannot forbid her and realistically expect that command to be followed that instead you will allow limited use with the provision that she use a vaporizer (to limit the lung-health impact) and only once a week at most on the weekends.
I understand that that suggestion may be insane to some of you. Of course we won't all have the same approach to this situation--I'm just pointing out one possible alternative.
Of course, you should take all the answers here with a grain of salt. I mean, look at the disclaimer down at the bottom of the page: "Important: Answerbag cannot guarantee the accuracy of answers submitted by members, and we recommend that you use common sense when following any advice found here."
It's like I said at the beginning. You are ultimately the final authority on how your child is raised. But whatever you do, BE a parent. My mother used similar tactics with me when I was a child, and not only did it sharpen my critical thinking skills, but I even won a few arguments along the line and it made my mom seem more like a wiser, older friend whose got my back than the authoritarian dictators my friends all told me about.
Good luck.
by squaremuffin on January 24th, 2007
PERFECT! I'd love to answer this question.
Let me involve myself personally, after asking you -
'Is your daughter a good person? Is her heart in the right place?'
If she is, your chances of her sorting things out for herself are significantly higher. If theres a loose cannon in the family, well it could be different.
It takes alot to go about this the correct way, and i believe my parents were quite good with resolving this situation.
I kept the fact that i did weed a secret, when i was 15-16 years old. Infact my parents think i've never smoked (to my knowledge they don't anyway!) and i've always managed to keep it a secret. I think if they had 'found out' it would have made things worse - the number one misconception for why a teenager does something like this is that they're trying to be someone they're not - WRONG. It's an experiment. To them it seems the perfect idea in the beginning and they'll keep at it. If they're denied it they'll go at it even more. If you haven't told her you know, DON'T. Watch closely what she does but never tell her you know.
I did it for a year and in that time i made the conscious decision to stop. Infact, i'm against smoking altogether, and have been since i stopped.
The final thing that made me stop DEAD was MSN Today (News page) came up on my computer one morning and it said "1 Spliff is the equivilent to 28 cigarettes!" It stopped me in my tracks, i proceeded to tell everyone on MSN and i never touched the stuff again.
I've become more lax with cigarettes but , i've made my own mind up, without parental guidance.
Play it cool, but unfortunately you're going to have to do more work than what will happen otherwise - shouting at eachother. If you disagree with something a teenager does and let them know it, your communication will lower and you'll become inescapeably distanced from them. Thats the WORST thing that you can do!
If things get worse, because i personally again, have never touched any substance other than marijuana. (Maybe once but i'm against it actively) If you feel she might have, use the worried mother approach and sit her down and say something like "If you ever took drugs, you'd tell me right? You wouldn't ever take drugs would you?"
Again, never admit to knowing.
IF, by the way, you have told her that you know, things become a little different. I had a few friends' parents who knew, and got funny about it sometimes, but left them to their own devices - it didn't work, the kids are now on hard drugs and i have nothing to do with them.
I think you need to intervene and show that you aren't afraid to call the cops on your own child.
Thats only if it gets reaaalll bad though.
I know this is a huge essay but i sincerely hope i've helped, i've thought about this question SO many times.
Best of luck.
by princessemmabelle on January 24th, 2007
I did this in high school and if my parents found out I wouldn't have been given access to the marijuana because I would not have ever been let out of the house except to go to school. Yes, some kids these days can and do do it right in school, but the school I went to I do not think anyone could have gotten away with it. I am not saying to lock her away, but don't reward her for doing this by letting her have her freedom. Smoking weed is very serious and can screw up your life, maybe not to the extent that other drugs can. I honestly think no matter what you try to teach her about the dangers of what she is doing is going to go in one ear and out the other...after all wasn't she taught in school since she was very little that doing drugs is bad?
I really believe that you need to find the sources and cut them out of her life. If you have to ground her and let her have no freedom then so be it. It's better than having her arrested, or worse get hooked on more serious stuff.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
In a recent clinical study, it has been proven that marijuana not only damages the human brain, now it has been linked to lung cancer.
She is a teenager and this info. will mean nothing to her. in one ear and out the other.
I have tried the following and it has worked in about 10% of the cases:
Tell your daughter you are about to be arrested, for contributing to a minor, if she does not quit smoking pot. that until she turns 18, you are responsible for her health, education, roof over her head and food. you are not actually responsible for her pot smoking, but the words just might scare her into quitting.
If this does not work, call the police and make a report for simple possession, concerning your daughter. you may be asked to sign a petition and a warrant for her arrest. yes, this is dramatic. sometimes, teenagers need a jolt to get their attention. a one-nite stay in juvenile court does wonders for many kids. her record can be expunged, at a later date.
Good luck and do not give up.
If she loves you, this will hit home.
by imcraazee on January 24th, 2007
I have basically done all of what you have suggested. I have ordered a drug test as well (not sure how that will go over). At least we have been able to have open dialogue about this. As I told soneone else, I love her just as she is but also love her enough to want to see her change and not stay where she is. I think as a parent I have to make a stand and not waiver. We have always taught her that using drugs is wrong and allowing her to use Marijuana under any circumstance will not be tolerated. We have let her know about the consequences if she gets caught (loss of car, legal ramifications, etc.). Most importantly, I pray for her everyday that she will make good choices and that God will give her the strength to do that. Thanks!
by Eagle2 on January 24th, 2007
people at my school dont give a damn about adults or parents - if you've seen the film battle royale, the japnese/chinese one you'll get an idea of where im going
- i respect my elders where most people dont and the only way to get through to them is to threaten them.
Now i dont mean everyone but i used a gun as an example - it doesnt have to be real or loaded - just use a fake one and that would scare them - that is if they dont listen to you!!
My dad used to use a belt as a threat if i wouldn't listen but my brother was the worst one. we were never hit extreme just a tap to send the message through.
so back to your daughter - if you say "this drug can or will kill you can you do you not understand what im saying - your life is threatened with this drug - theres so much things you should look forward to but if you keep going the way you are i'd have to berry you coz you would have died of it." Now dont use this speech if it doesn't sound right but if you could go along the lines of it just to get her to understand!
you''l know she'll be listerning coz she'd go quite, or would nod her head, or shed look at you when you talk.
i hope you for the best and im sorry my first answer was miss leading!
by imcraazee on January 24th, 2007
As a parent I have come to feel that I cannot condone my daughter smoking an illegal drug under any circumstances. There must be another way for her to cope with the Adderall and hopefully I will find what that answer is and be able to share it with her. I think what most teens don't understand when they're going through this "phase" is that they could have the gene that causes them to become addicted. They don't know until they use it and are taking a big risk. Actually taking the risk is probably what it's all about. I think being a teen ager in todays society must be pretty hard. Mostly I will love her just as she is and love her enough to want to see her change and not stay where she is. Thanks!
by shooby on January 20th, 2007
i don't see, personily wut is wrong with it. do you drink thats even worse maybe you should leave her alone it could be worse
by imcraazee on January 20th, 2007
A good mix of suggestions from all of you. I have learned in disciplining this strong willed child - what works and what doesn't. For more background, she is 17 and diagnosed ADD when she was 14. Prior to that we had behavior that is consistent with ADD children - risky behavior. She is also suffering from depression and anxiety. She is on an anti-depressant - started taking ADD meds. at 14 but didn't like the effect on her - made her feel sad and withdrawn (she is very outgoing). School has been going down hill since the end of middle school. She is now going to high school and it is our last alternative for her (at this point we're just trying to keep her in school). She has decided to take Adderall to help her concentrate at school and then claims that marijuana helps her come down. I have been to the internet and printed out info and talked to her about the physical and mental consequences as well as the fact that it is illegal. If she is arrested for possession - she faces the consequences.
I will add that she is basically a good kid making bad choices right now. We live in an affluent area where kids have the money for drugs and parents with blinders on. Our daughter has a part time job and is required to buy gas for her car. I constantly pray for wisdom and for God to protect her. I have made it very clear to her what this is doing to me emotionally and how it hurts to see her hurting herself.
I appreciate any further input you have. Thanks!
by itwasalllikebam on October 10th, 2009
Personally, I don't see any thing wrong with it, however I'll suggest what my mom did with me.
1. Thank God it wasn't something more serious.
2. Tell her to quit, and explain why you want her to quit. Tell her that if she doesn't she'll be punished.
3. Wait 28 days, buy an at-home drug test (they can be purchased at any drug store for roughly twenty dollars. Trust me, I had to pay for them everytime.) And adminester it. (Put cleaning chemical in the toilet, and make sure the sink is off the entire time. Make sure she doesn't have water with her, and keep the medican cabneit locked.)
If it's positive:
4. Enforce the punisment (It was six months without leaving the house, no t.v., no phone, no internet, no one over, ect. for me.)
5. Repeat step 3, if it's positvie again double the previous punishment.
I was scared shitless of my mom.
by VADAD on September 30th, 2009
I am now in the same situation. Allowing any of this to continue.... Apparently some of these answers are from people who don't have a child and understand this kind of love.
by Lucky on April 6th, 2009
If YOU want her to stop, light up a joint with her. Let her friends and their parents know you smoke mj with your daughter. She will be so embarrassed she will disaassociate herself from mj immediately. If not, at least you will know what you are asking her to give up.
by Anjana on March 14th, 2007
http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/spiritualresearch/mentalhealth/addiction/
You need to go through this website, it really helps.
by weezypops on February 20th, 2007
pls ignore this. I added it accidentally.
by Rock501 on March 19th, 2007
The law is the law, and your the parent. What kind of example do you set for your own child if you dont obey the law yourself. Getting busted for posession along with all the other charges either of you could face is not worth the risk just for your daughter to have a "different" type of social life.
If she's 18 and living under her own roof and providing for herself, then thats her shoulders the responsibility falls on. Not yours.
Also i have to say. The myth that people spread around about how smoking marijuana is the gateway to other drugs, well its not a myth. Never have I met a friend that smoked marijuana that did not try another drug or at least looked for a dealer of another type of drug to try.
by Anonymous on March 27th, 2007
I have to agree with some of the statements above that talk about the fact that your daughter will never stop if you tell her. Honestly being that age and smoking weed didn't stop me from being a wild child that my mom couldn't handle. What really made me realize is that it isn't my mom or my dad or anyone that's going to help me control my nasty habits, it's going to be me. Although it did take awhile to realize that (and going through alternative school) it's the fact that I knew my parents were there to help me out when I needed them, they were the ones that made me realize that my friends aren't the best thing for me, the school isn't really helping either and another thing was that my boyfriend smoked weed and I thought that by me telling him that he can't do it, controlled my habit, I haven't touched it since.
So don't think about what you can do, realize that if your daughter is doing well in school then once her grades slip them maybe that's an indication that you need to analyze things. If I were her and my mother was telling me that I can't smoke weed anymore would be really weird, on top of that would really bother me that she would know, plus it all depends on you and your daughters relationship, if she really wants to make you happy she'll respect the fact that 'okay maybe this isn't the best thing for me'.
Just keep your head high and pray that nothing will lead from this. Be positive.
by Dope Man on April 25th, 2007
let her smoke a little weed what hert her. my daughter smokes crack
by littlegreycells on March 27th, 2007
tell her to talk to FRANK
by glamorgirli on February 20th, 2007
How old is your daughter? She might just realize that its a totally uncool thing to do and grow out of it. I'd just tell her how disappointed you are in her choices and you thought she was smarter then that. If my mommy was disappointed in me like that I would stop..Plus pot makes you entirely Lazy!
by lizard_king_21 on February 20th, 2007
you could make her watch the episode of south park. they tell it like it is. pot isn't all that bad, but pot makes it okay to be bored. you're bored, you smoke one, you're not bored anymore.
and it's when you're bored you should be doing something to improve yourself. read a book, exercize,learn to play an instrument, just do something other than being a dirty pot smoking hippie.
god potheads are dumb.
by New Member on June 8th, 2007
Kick her out of the house and don't let her come back until she has stopped smoking. It is bad.
by Punto_Rich on May 20th, 2007
well, cannibus is an extremly bad way to go imho, but thats just me, its a typical teenage thing to do, but im only 18 myself, ive never seen the point in smoking pot, whats the use?? its a bit of smoke, great fad eh?? weed actually isnt harmless at all, every draw you take on the joint kills around 500,000 brain cells, it also is mixed with tobacco smoke with can cause lung cancer!
by moke on June 10th, 2007
personaly if my mom had throne me inn the street i would have thought twice bout my habit!!
moke
by JUSTNORMAL on January 20th, 2007
Because we dont know her age, its difficult to make a suggestion. If kids smoke it due to peer pressure, sadly that is normal just to experiment. But if she is using every day, I suggest rehab. I put my son in at 15yrs old, it began to take its toll on his school work, memory and attitude. Good Luck
by Athrael on February 9th, 2007
I've used drugs and alcohol since I was 16 (over 20 years now). No amount of talking before I started helped, no amount of screaming, talking, begging and intervention stopped the addiction.
I got clean and sober when I was ready, when I had had enough, when I reached the point where I wanted to be clean and sober much more than I wanted to be strung out or drunk.
(I'm an on again off again addict my periods of use are broken with periods of sobriety)
The "problem" is not doing drugs, the problem is that we do more drugs to treat ills which we don't know how to cope with.
Teenagers are at risk because being a teenager sucks. Think back Mom to when you were a teenager, the confusion the being a kid and almost, but not quite an adult. Along with the rest of the pressures of fitting in, being cool and pretty much having to figure out now what you are going to be for the rest of your life.
If you didn't drink or use pot back then, I bet if you were handed liquid "fun" or a smoking forgetfulness you would have jumped on the chance to escape being a teenager for just a minute.
There is something she is trying to find when she is high, something about being high that makes her feel better. The problem is not the drug, the problem is something else and she is using the drug to deny or get away from the problem.
Addicts in NA/AA sit around and talk about their lives before, during and after drugs. If you sit there and listen you will see that most of them started using/drinking because they had emotional/mental garbage that they were trying to deal with. Instead of actually working on the garbage pile, they try to bury the garbage under mind altering substances (drugs/drink).
Have you ever smoked pot? I'm being serious in that question. If not then you can not relate to her - so all of your clean and sober talk is coming from an empty space.
I do not know how willing you are AND I DO NOT SUGGEST DOING THIS WITH OTHER DRUGS - smoke a joint WITH her. Just once (no you won't get hooked on one joint)
Again WITH her - you two have a personal party.
1. You will experience what she experiences and you will know the attraction.
2. Pot makes you talkative - meaning you both will open up more with each other.
3. Getting High with Mom will be a really weird trip for her and will most likely cause her to think a lot more about what she doing.
4. Maybe you too will "connect" for a moment and be able to find out the underlying reason why she smokes.
You will (if you never smoked pot before) come out of the experience understanding the attraction. Which may make it easier for you to understand the drives and see clearly the other issues in her life so you can work on those.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Oops. This was meant to be a comment.
by woodewise on May 8th, 2007
as a marijuana "addict" i can say, you dont have much to worry about. i smoke up to 4 times a day and am still going into collage and doing something with my life.
i DO however know, how dangerous that shit CAN be.
you have to let her know that you accept her decision, but make sure SHE knows, she cant let that shit controll her life like i did for several years.
although it may not be labelled as "addictive" or "dangerous" it still has the potential to be exactly that.
as for the whole "gateway" drug. i wouldnt worry. that scheem was simply another effective way for harry j anslinger(drug commissioner back in the day) to get people to stop smoking the herb. his first two reports were that it killed you, or made you criminally insane after one use.
all in all, weed has gotten itself a bad name. I would only worry if you notice her grades dropping dramatically.
by glcollins on October 3rd, 2007
I just found out that my son is smoking pot. He is 14. I took some time to think about what I was going to do and instead of punishing him by grounding or other means I wrote the following, put in on a poster and made him sign it and hang it on the wall in his room so he could see it every day.
What I understand about smoking pot...
I understand that marijuana is an illegal substance and if I am caught by the police I will be arrested, charged and prosecuted.
I understand that smoking pot doubles my risk of developing depression and anxiety later in life.
I understand that the amount of tar and carbon monoxide absorbed by marijuana smoke are three to five times higher than tobacco smoke.
I understand that contrary to popular belief, pot smoking can become addictive. Each year more kids enter treatment for pot addiction than all other drugs combined.
I understand that today’s pot is more potent than ever and can be laced with crack or other chemicals to increase addiction.
I understand that pot is a gateway drug and can lead to other substance abuse.
I understand that smoking pot impairs my ability to make good judgments, choices and life altering decisions.
I understand that smoking pot can lead to a host of health, social, learning and behavioral problems at a crucial time in a young persons development.
I understand that smoking pot can put my academic achievements at risk.
I understand that operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana is an illegal offence and that if I am caught I will be arrested, charged and prosecuted. (If I am not killed first)
I understand that smoking pot impairs my fine motor skills, balance and internal timing system by impairing the CEREBELLUM part of my brain.
I understand that smoking pot impairs blood flow to the PERFRONTAL CORTEX, in my brain, (which does not fully developed until my mid 20s), effecting my ability to make decisions that require judgement and consideration of long term consequences.
I understand that smoking pot impairs my ability to reason and problem solve by affecting the receptors in the CREBRAL CORTEX of my brain.
I understand that smoking pot can affect the HYPOTHALAMUS part of my brain causing sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances, increased blood pressure and heart rate.
I understand that smoking pot impacts the LIMBIC SYSTEM in my brain leading to depression, short term memory loss, lack of motivation and suicidal thoughts.
I understand that even a small amount of marijuana found at home or at school will have severe consequences including suspension.
I understand that I only have one body and it has to last me the rest of my life.
I understand that comparing the risks of pot smoking to other substances does not change any of these facts.
I understand that we know more about marajuana use today than we ever have and that I have someone in my life who loves me enough to provide me with this information, that information equals power and that I now have the power to make an informed decision.
Gail
by Paulmichael Sperling on July 13th, 2008
Don't ask her to stop. It's not harmful and it's not a gateway drug, if her grades don't decrease and she doesn't move on to other drugs, theirs no real reason to ask her to stop.
Is it illegal to grow weed?
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You walked into your bedroom and discovered bags of marijuana on your bed, your first thought?
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does marijuana really stunt brain growth?
by ijustflyby on January 8th, 2012
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You're reading I just found out my daughter is smoking marijuana. I want her to stop, but just telling your teen ager to stop doing something is not realistic. Any ideas on what I can say or do to get her to think about what shes doing? What would have worked for you?
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Comments
if i could give more than two points, i would.
by Nikkeh on January 24th, 2007
Good answer. We need to start accepting the facts about marijuana. It is the most benevolent of drugs, including alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine. As you said, the stress should be on responsible use. It should also be noted that although the facts are glaring, the (US) law still stands, meaning that smokers are running the risk of fines/jail/stigma and other outrageous nonsense.
by Aristocles on January 24th, 2007
Excellent answer.
by debsmooth on January 24th, 2007
First of all, I gave you points because I believe your answer is well thought out and I believe that you believe it. With that said, I have to disagree with you on many levels. Research on recreational use of marijuana is still very new, therefore long-term effects are still inconclusive. And while marijuana is considered the 'safest' recreational substance, that doesn't mean that it is not dangerous. Constant comparison to hard-core drugs like heroin, cocaine and meth, make it easy to say that it's the 'safest' recreational substance.
As far as explaining how to use it responsibly, the fact that it's illegal makes use of it irresponsible -period. I applaud and agree with 1Simmy's answer which promotes a proactive parental approach through love, honesty and communication.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Also, I know that there are plenty of users that smoke pot strictly for recreational purposes, but I believe that a lot of people use it to check out and avoid emotional pain, or stress, or difficult life experiences. These are the people who become addicted and use it as a 'gateway' drug. Parents need to realize that promoting use may very well be limiting the child's coping skills to drug use.
Last, our house has rules that all of our children are expected to abide by. No drug use is just one of those rules. Are you really suggesting that when a kid breaks the rules, that you sit down with him/her and teach them how to break the rules responsibly??? This makes no sense to me.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Momma_Bear: Thank you for regurgitating every bit of nonsense that you must have heard about marijuana. While your comment may not have been as well-thought-out as you probably thought it was, I also believe that you believe it. I really don't have the patience right now to explain to you why you are so wrong, but I will encourage you to educate yourself about the subject because it's obvious that you know very little factual information. I will say that I respect your right to parent however you see fit but I encourage parents to be truthful to their children with FACTS, not rumors and untruths.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I am always truthful with my children - thanks for the encouragement. Which part of what I said was not 'factual'?
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Research on marijuana has been going on for over 60 years, plenty of time to conclude the long-term effects. More recent studies are now showing that a lot of things we thought were true about marijuana are false (the "gateway" theory, how marijuana affects memory and cognitive skills, physical addiction, etc). One of the main reasons that pot was criminalized in the US is because the government could no longer tax it (Read about the Marihuana Tax act of 1937, The Controlled Substances Act of 1970, and Timothy Leary vs. The United States - 1969). I'm sure some people use pot to "check out" emotionally , but can't the same be said of alcohol (which is perfectly legal and ten times more dangerous than weed)? Yes, you can be responsible with your marijuana use, and a big part of that means NOT GETTING CAUGHT - because it IS illegal (which is ridiculous, based on all the evidence to support the fact that it's SAFER than alcohol and tobacco - both of which are legal).
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
There are even studies that show marijuana REDUCES aggression (in humans AND laboratory animals). Giving your children the facts is not promoting use, it's promoting TRUTH. You can't control every aspect of your child's life. At some point, they will probably be curious about pot and may or may not come to you for an opinion. I'd rather have my kids at home smoking pot than out partying god-knows-where and getting arrested.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I apologize if I misspoke about how long research has been going on. There will always be more recent studies. I have friends who ARE addicted (I believe psychologically) and suffering severe respitory damage from smoking pot. There will always be research supporting both sides of this argument. Your condescending responses to me tell me that you care nothing for anyone who disagrees with you. My earlier point was just because it is safer than other drugs, or even alcohol, or tobacco, doesn't mean that it is safe. I also do not allow my kids to drink alcohol or smoke tobacco. These are not activities that are good for kids - and kids generally are not responsible enough to make good decisions in regards to these things. These are things that they can wait just a few more years, when they are adults, to decide for themselves. And that telling kids that it's ok to break the law is irresponsible. The truth is (and I have stated this in other posts) that I have very mixed feelings about marijuana being illegal. I think that the 'War on Drugs' is a huge waste of energy and tax dollars.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I don't believe I was being condescending. I'm very well read on this particular subject and I find that most people who have differing views on the subject than me are usually people who know little to nothing about it. I never said that smoking or drinking were appropriate activities for kids! I don't think it's irresponsible to tell kids it's okay to break the law either, especially when the law is discriminatory and arbitrary. The only way to change something is to challenge it.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Sometimes I believe that it should be legalized, taxed and regulated the same way that alcohol and tobacco are. I think that our kids would be safer that way. AND I never said that I thought alcohol or tobacco were safer. In fact, I said that 'while it is considered the safest recreational substance that doesn't mean that it's not dangerous'. I think that if marijuana were legalized, then parents would be forced to pay more attention to their own kids and what is going on with them. I do know that I cannot control every aspect of my childrens lives, but I have one going off to college this year and one entering senior year, both are so-far drug-free and both are glad that I have maintained what control I have.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I also agree that if you want to change something you have to challenge it and do something about it. Teaching kids how 'not getting caught', in my opinion, is not the way to go. You and I obviously have different parenting styles.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
"Thank you for regurgitating every bit of nonsense that you must have heard about marijuana. While your comment may not have been as well-thought-out as you probably thought it was, I also believe that you believe it." This isn't condescending??? Hmmmm...
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I apologize, but your first comment DID sound like all the regurgitated nonsense that I've heard people argue hundreds of times before. I don't think that if pot were legalized that parents would have to pay more attention to what their kids are doing. It's the fact that it's iLLEGAL NOW that means parents really have to watch out. Like I said before, I'd rather KNOW that my teenagers are at home and SAFE than wonder if they've lied to me about where they were going so they could score some pot or get stoned. The fact that it's illegal makes it more attractive to kids who want to "rebel" against their parents. I feel that if I am straightforward about my own pot use and explain the REAL problems that marijuana can cause that my kids can make an informed decision for themselves... who knows, maybe they will decide NOT to smoke! Either way, I know they will respect my honesty and be thankful that I treat them like human beings and not like possessions.
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I believe as parents, we ALWAYS have to pay attention. My point about legalising is that some people are laxed because they think that the laws will keep their kids safe. I don't like arguing, I can appreciate coming to a middle ground. I want you to know that I am NOT telling you that I think you are a bad parent. I enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail on occasion and I believe that because we drink responsibly, our kids have a decent example set for them. I also wanted to tell you that I think your kids will respect your honesty as well. The other stuff about whether or not it's dangerous/unhealthy - and about allowing kids to smoke pot - we'll just have to agree to disagree. Cheers!
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I can live with that! =)
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
BTW, let me just 'regurgitate' that I gave you points for your original answer :P
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
Just try to aim it away from my shoes! They're new =)
by Anonymous on January 24th, 2007
I think allowing her to smoke at home would be saying that I condone it. And to say that my forbidding her to do it would make her rebel more - well that's just a cop out to me. And shame on me for not respecting my daughter's decision to smoke marijuana! I respect and love her enough that I don't want to see her harm herself - I hope you have someone in your life who loves you enough to be honest with you and who wants the best for your life.
I've just been reading the discussion between you and Momma Bear - let me add that my daughter has had quite a few respiratory problems since smoking - pnuemonia, wheezing, bronchitis. She started out smoking cigarettes and I have read that marijuana could have more potential for cancer than cigarettes (found this on the internet, but not sure what site). So there are health risk in addition to emotional risk and the risk of addiction. It's because of people like you, rainasky, as well as teachers in our school system who promote the use of marijuana, that we as parents are constantly striving to educate our children on good choices. It's hard enough to parent but I will not give up or give in. I wish you all the best...
by imcraazee on January 25th, 2007
Just to keep the facts straight---marijuana use hasn't been linked to cancer. And unless someone smokes twenty joints per day, I doubt pot is to blame for respitory problems.
by Aristocles on January 25th, 2007
imcraazee: Once again, pot is NOT physically addicting. There may be some cases of psychological addiction to marijuana, but that's only in people who have a predisposition to addictive behavior (they'd just as easily become addicted to internet porn, or shopping). Second, there has never been a case of cancer or emphysema linked to marijuana smoking. It IS true, for the most part, that forbidding a teenager to do something is just going to make them want to do it more. I'll say it again: I would rather know that my child is at home SAFE than wonder if they've lied to me about where they were going to be and have something terrible happen to them.
by Anonymous on January 25th, 2007
I'll also restate my belief that you CAN absolutely smoke pot and live a normal, happy life. The fact that it's even illegal is ridiculous in itself, and I won't believe for a second that something that helps so many people find PEACE in their lives can possibly be "a bad choice". For the record, who are these teachers who promote the use of marijuana IN SCHOOL?
by Anonymous on January 25th, 2007
Great answer. My parents approach to drugs, sex, everything really, was to allow me to make up my own mind, help me be informed, and to make sure I knew I never had to hide anything from them. As a result, I never once lied to my parents as a teenager, and anything I have done was completely my own decision - peer pressure was never a factor. Other teenagers I knew who had parents who tried to control everything they did and told them they were wrong to do something the parent did not approve of or understand were always the ones who went off the rails, lied to their parents, caved in to peer pressure because they were ill-informed etc. Just because you think your child is drug free, does not mean he or she is... Personally, I'd rather know what they were doing, even if I didn't agree with it... at least that way it can be openly discussed and they'd know they can come to you if things go wrong...
by weezypops on February 20th, 2007
It's not addicting? Then how come my brother sold my niecee's W.I.C. formula to get money so he could score some bud? I've seen way more often then not that somebody has given up family and jobs just so they can smoke weed. And any time you're using a substance to find peace in your life you've got serious problems. When it comes to the health problems, it's not so much the breathing problems, but the long term brain damage you have to worry about. My brother was a wounderful astist who can no longer control his hand long enough to sign his name.
As for the kids, mine are going to know that if you make the wrong choice you will have to deal with the concequences. And I will be taking more then enough time and trouble to make sure they are fully informed. Don't even think for a second that being one of those anything goes parents has made your kids better. You've just taught them that they can do what they want and get away with it. They now have no respect for rules and when they're on their own they won't be able to cope with life as it really is. My parents were not strict with him, but they were with me. I'm the one who never got into trouble and can function as an adult. He lives in a homeless shelter and has one more strike to go before they put him away for life.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on February 25th, 2007
No it's not physically addicting. There may be cases of psychological addition in individuals who are already predisposed to that sort of thing, but it's not as common. I'm sorry that your brother cannot control his hand movements, but marijuana is not to blame for this - otherwise it'd be the first case of neurological damage from marijuana smoking in the history of it's use. Furthermore, marijuana has never been found to cause "brain damage". Marijuana affects the short term memory capacity in the brain, but only while the user is under the influence. Once the drug has passed through the system, short term memory function returns to normal. Your brother obviously has some problems, and I'm sorry, but you're blaming it on marijuana when the REAL problem is probably psychological and existed long before he ever smoked pot.
by Anonymous on February 25th, 2007
Rainasky, I'm sure that you have access to all kinds of 'more recent studies' to support your argument. Here is information from the World Health Organization: <A href="http://www.who.int/substance_abuse/facts/cannabis/en/" target=_blank rel=nofollow>http://www.who.int/.../</A> I guess for some of us, the risk is too high to take with our children. For my family, my teenagers are asked to make such decisions for themselves as adults - and as adults, they will face any consequences that come along with their actions. As for my opinion on the topic and any guidance they want from me, they know exactly how I stand on the issue. Also, as long as it is illegal, there is risk of dangerous contaminants, which can be lethal.
by Anonymous on February 25th, 2007
At one point in time my brother was listed as a genuis. Now he's barely functional. And he did start doing it to try and hide from his problems. He did move on to harder drugs when the weed stopped working. But the shaking was there first. And I know several other people who show the same syptoms he has. Even when they stop they still have the same symptoms that he has. And the ones who have stopped do not return to normal. The waxy substance that coats the neurons basicly suffocates them and they die off never to return. I could always tell the tokers when I trained people at my old company because they couldn't retain the info that I gave them to do their jobs right.That and they got fired for not passing the drug test or calling off alll the time. I also have damage from my dad's smoking. I have HAD/ADD, and Sequence Dyslexia. All traits of weed babies.And the very fact you're useing an illegal substance makes it an irresponsable act.No matter how you try to justify it.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on February 26th, 2007
I honestly believe you folks are now officially into making things up about weed and its alleged effects on yourselves and others. None of the credible research in this area points at any serious longterm effects on users or their unborn children. I do not advocate drug use by pregnant people but the research that has been done does not support your assertions here. I am providing a link to a wiki-article with links back out to the research.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marijuana#Health_issues_and_the_effects_of_cannabis
by debsmooth on February 26th, 2007
MommaBear: I tried your links but they didn't work. I was very interested in what the WHO had to say, but upon visiting the site it was like trying to fly a space shuttle. But maybe that's just me. I tried on my own on a search engine, but the first things I found were articles that accused WHO of playing down the studies they did that found that pot has rather benign effects: http://www.ndsn.org/FEB98/mj2.html
http://tinyurl.com/3csx8l I found a few more articles for a more comprehensive approach, and when you look through them you'll see that pot IS rather benign. It poses a rare risk of psychosis in certain people and shouldn't be used if you have heart trouble. It is not a gateway drug to the majority of people that use it and it doesn't cause lung cancer. Here are the other links: http://tinyurl.com/2tykz2 http://tinyurl.com/ycwjlj
http://tinyurl.com/3675lu
by Aristocles on February 27th, 2007
Aristocles, I'm sorry about the links. My point is that there are still well known health authorities stating negative health effects. As I've stated before, I know that there will always be more recent studies supporting both arguments. I also said for my family, we'll leave it to our kids to make those decisions for themselves when they are adults.
debsmooth, I have known plenty of folks who have had bad experiences with marijuana and as I said before I also have friends who are currently experiencing harmful effects from long-term use. You saying that people are making things up is basically you calling us liars. You don't know what my personal experiences are, or anyone elses here for that matter. Is that what you revert to when you can't force someone else to see something your way?? Very mature...
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
My problem with this is that if you look at the facts, then you can see that cigarettes, alcohol, fast food, and handguns are far more harmful than pot although they are legal. With all due respect, if you don't want your kids smoking pot, then that's all well and good. If you don't want to either, then that's fine too. Us pot-advocates want consistency when it comes to the government "deciding" what's too dangerous for us. Pot isn't even in the same league as those others I mentioned. And if people mess up their lives while being a stoner, then that has little to do with pot and everything to do with laziness.
by Aristocles on February 27th, 2007
Not really. It's a misconception passed by bad science on the subject. Things have gotten so bad in Amsterdam that they're thinking about making it illegal again. As for your comment about phychological addition, that's harder to kick then a physical. And in reallity it never really goes away. And I'm not making up the effects, I'm living proof of the effects of what a parent's use can do to a child. As for it not being harmful or benign there is no such thing as a benign drug wheather it's a naturally accuring substance or a chemically compossed one. Here's an example no animal will eat naturally growing marijuanna, cocoa, or opiates because it causes them damage. But they will eat small amounts of tabacco as a form of natural dewormer. Humans are the only animals who will ingest these substances. As for alcohol, you can enjoy it without needing to get drunk. But to enjoy weed you must become inTOXICated.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on February 27th, 2007
Good points. My responses: 1) I've never heard that Amsterdam assertion; I'll look into it. 2) The psychological addiction is mild, so that carries little weight. 3) As for birth defects, I haven't heard that either, but I'll give it to you. It sounds reasonable, but in no way can you take from my previous arguments that I'm condoning it. Responsible use doesn't extend to pregnant women no more than it does to someone who has heart trouble. That should be a given. 4) The animal-fact you have listed doesn't mean anything. It doesn't relate to this argument. They wont drink vodka if it's lying out either. My point is that we need to be consistent with our labels.
by Aristocles on February 27th, 2007
I'm just going to add that I've actually seen animals eat marijuana plants. Deer, dogs, cats for certain will eat marijuana plants. Cats and dogs will eat dried marijuana if it's left lying around the house, dogs moreso than cats - but I've witnessed it with my own eyes on several occassions so I can say for sure that it happens. As for cocoa and opiates, well, I can't say as I've never seen them growing naturally.
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
Momma_bear and Pasobrio I am certain you and your friends need to believe these long-term effects are from weed. Please repost links to credible sources that support your assertions. I suppose if someone believes with all of their heart that demonic possession or a parent puffing a joint is the cause of their terrible afflictions then who am I to argue with them? It amounts to the same thing in my opinion. If you believe you have all these label-y issues because of your parent's drug use then clearly, that's what caused it. If you believe it, then it's real and best of luck with, what was it? HAD/ADD, and Sequence Dyslexia? And the waxy stuff that coats neurons because of toking? Where on earth did you find that one? Medically impossible as far as I know. I did find some articles about weed growing neurons or affecting them short-term in a variety of ways but nothing about them being destroyed including one from Stanford U, where they've sussed out THC actually stimulates neuron-growth and that the brain itself makes cannabinoid-like substances ALL ON ITS OWN. Happy reading.
http://news-service.stanford.edu/news/2004/september22/med-marijuana-922.html
http://www.medpagetoday.com/Neurology/GeneralNeurology/tb/1934
http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20051015/fob7.asp
by debsmooth on February 27th, 2007
debsmooth, I speak only for myself here, but yes, that's right, I will believe what I need to believe to raise my children to the best of my ability. I will use my best judgement in doing so and I will never have to sit back and wonder if I did the right thing by creating and maintaining what I consider responsible and loving rules for my family. And you'll believe what you need to believe. Hey, if this 'Smoke Pot With Your Kids' campaign really takes off, then you'll be a real pioneer won't you?! You think that I'm irresponsible for not allowing my kids to smoke pot? That's okay with me. Coming from you, it truly doesn't bother me at all. I don't mind coming here and giving someone like imacrazee my opinion and also share my honest experience with her. I don't come here to be called a liar. It's really too bad that folks can't just come here to interact in a more friendly environment. It doesn't surprise me though - defensiveness always tends to be harsh. Rock on with ya smokey selves ;)
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
I'm not sure how you get from my not believing the load of dribble about the effects of pot you and your cronies are selling to my smoking pot with my kid or advocating it but you got there somehow and you sound like a genuine extremist. I even provided working links to studies at universities people have actually heard of. Can you do the same or do you want to just keep sounding histrionic and uninformed? Did I say you were irresponsible? No. Did I say your parenting style sounds very controlling and not based in trust because you are drug testing them and searching their rooms, yes, but as you love to point out, it works for you. Your children have not run screaming for the streets yet. Bet they are scared you might come find them if they did. To each their own but if you can't provide credible evidence to support your pet theories then you are talking out your you-know-what. End of story.
I have a nice quote for you:
Doubt is not a pleasant condition, but certainty is absurd.
Voltaire
by debsmooth on February 27th, 2007
My cronies? That's a new one. I have never drug tested my kids and so far, none have gone running. You bet your bottom that I would go looking for them. I know my kids - and they would WANT me to. I do not know any parent who wouldn't try to find their child. You're the first to call me an extremist, but if you mean that I am consistent with my kids, you're right. I am. Like I've said before, I have asked my kids to make these kinds of decisions as adults, rather than as teenagers. That makes me an extremist? If my kids start having the same kinds of problems as the original poster's and nothing else worked, then yes, I would do whatever I have to do, drug test, get counseling, anything. If that makes me an extremist, then I'm guilty. I don't know why the WHO link didn't work. As for the effects of smoking pot has had on a few people I know, I can't provide proof, but for such a load of dribble, you sure are bent about it.
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
As for the 'Smoke Pot With Your Kids' campaign comment, I was speaking to comments made earlier. My mistake, I realize now that you were not a part of that conversation, however, I wrote it in jest partly. I don't really see why it couldn't be true though if folks here are so strong in their beliefs on the topic.
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
http://www.who.int/substance_abuse/facts/cannabis/en/
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
Aristocles, I just wanted to respond to: "Us pot-advocates want consistency when it comes to the government "deciding" what's too dangerous for us." - I am not a pot advocate, I'm not totally against it either. I smoked pot for a while when I was younger and once the novelty wore off, it did nothing for me, but slow me down, make me cough and give me the munchies. If you read some of my previous posts, you'll see that I have said that I have mixed feelings about it, but I basically lean towards legalization. For many reasons: consistency, regulation, but mostly for safety. I do not believe that children/teenagers, for the most part, can/will be responsible users. Like alcohol and tobacco, these should be adult activities.. As far as fast-food is concerned, hell it SHOULD be outlawed.
by Anonymous on February 27th, 2007
Momma_Bear: Your link finally works, however I'm amused to find that the page you've referred us to doesn't back up your statements at all. In fact, it makes marijuana use look rather harmless.. aside from the memory issues that everyone is already aware of, and an increased chance of lung inflammation (well duh, if you inhale smoke of course your lungs can be damaged) there really aren't any health risks that I'd consider "serious" on that entire page.
by Anonymous on February 28th, 2007
Well rainasky, for me, it backs up my point enough to say that this is not something I want my kids to get into. Just because something is 'safer' doesn't make it SAFE. Like I've said many times, they can make these decisions as adults when they're on their own. So far I have one going off to college this year and one going into Senior year in HS and they are willing to wait. I find it interesting that the 'pot-advocates' find this so hard to swallow... I am not judging YOU, just saying that like so many other things, it's not an activity for kids.
by Anonymous on February 28th, 2007
That's fine. I certainly don't want my kids to do it either until they're mature enough to make an informed decision. I don't enjoy seeing my children participate in any activities that are harmful to their health, but it's more likely that they're going to die in a car crash (caused by a drnk driver, no less) than be harmed by marijuana smoking. It just aggravates me that people attribute every flareup of gout, gingivitis, blindness, ignorance, etc to a substance that continues to be proven LESS dangerous (and less LETHAL) than so many "socially accepted" drugs in our country. Yes, there are studies being done every day, and we are constantly revising what we "think" we know about drugs (legal or otherwise), but that doesn't give us license to fabricate things in the meantime.
by Anonymous on February 28th, 2007
I think I'm done here. I've been called a liar (that I'm making things up), an extremist, told that I'm histrionic, that my kids will probably run away, that I'm regurgitating nonsense and now I'm apparently collecting cronies for my cause. LOL. Anyway, **yawn** the hostility in the room is a bore.
by Anonymous on February 28th, 2007
That's probably logic boring the pants off you, again. Last Year the number of deaths from Tylenol-induced actute liver failure = 450. Number of deaths directly related to marijuana poisoning = 0. That's right. Goose-egg. Zero. Bupkiss. Tylenol is probably your idea of a "safer" drug too.
by debsmooth on February 28th, 2007
Please keep in mind, if you let your child smoke pot, and children services find out about it, there is a chance that you could be charged with a crime for allowing it to happen. I do not see heavy consequences other than this, for smoking pot.(from USA TODAY) We're going out on a limb here, but we'll wager that Amanda Lynn Livelsberger just might win the "Bad Mom of the Day Award" for smoking pot with her teenage son to reward him for doing his schoolwork. (What ever happened to ice cream or pizza???) As the Associated Press tells it, the 30-year-old Livelsberger of Gettysburg, Pa., (yes, that Gettysburg) was facing drug charges when she admitted in court Monday that she had started lighting up with her son when he was 11; he's now 13. (She also said she had smoked cannabis with two of his budds, ages 17 and 18.) She pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of corruption of minors, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a small of amount of marijuana. Mark your calendars: Sentencing is Nov. 27.
by turbowray on March 14th, 2007
I guess what I am saying by this is, we are all entitled to our opinions about pot smoking, and how it should be legalized, but we should never encourage our children to do it in our presence, if nothing else, it means that we are telling our children that our opinions on this, supersede the law, and that is not right, even if we are right in our feelings about pot smoking in the first place. Not being argumenative, or anything negative, just making an observation, knowing the legal consequences of doing this. I would rather my children drink at my home, then go to a party, and ultimately drink and drive, but that would be illegal, so I settle for telling them, if you are going to get drunk, just call and I will pick you up, no questions asked. It has saved thier lives as far as I am concerned, and I have broken no laws.
by turbowray on March 14th, 2007
I agree with turbowray on the whole thing about you'r veiws should not supperced the laws. And not to be a wet blanket or to start an argument, but the whole thing about the letting your kids drink can get you in as much trouble as letting them smoke weed. Especially in your own home. If you get caught you get charged the same as if you gave them pot. And the same goes for the parents at the party.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on March 15th, 2007
Yup, that is why I will not let them drink at home, but I will always be there to give them a ride home, if they did drink elsewhere and need it.
by turbowray on March 16th, 2007
And you can still get very busted for that and so can the parents who let them drink at their house. That's why in my house if it's against the law it's against the rules and if I catch you the next stop on this ride will be me dragging your sorry butt into the police station myself.I'm not going to jail and getting charged with a felony because my kid wants to be stupid.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on March 17th, 2007
No you can't. You are not offering them alcohol, or condoning it, you are simply saying, if you are stupid enough to go to a party, and drink, call a parent to get a ride home. Schools have even created a contract that is signed by parents, and thier children, that promise that they would not drink and drive, and ask the parent for a ride home, and the parent signs it also, saying they would offer the ride home. It was created because people knew of how many deaths there were because teenagers were to scared to call for a ride, and ended up driving themselves, or with another intoxicated person. I can see that it sounded like I would be AT the party with them, and if that was what you were talking about, YES I could be in trouble for being there lol! Just had to add that in case I was reading it wrong!
by turbowray on March 18th, 2007
We have had a cople of parents around here who thought that too. They're now facing charges for their kids drinking at a party. The cops knew about it and waited for people to leave and just started pulling 'em over one by one. If the kids were drunk the parents got charged for letting them be at a party where there was alcholo and minors. They got charged with deliquencey of a minor and deriliction of parental duty.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on March 18th, 2007
i doubt it if you will have a relationship with your child if you have them thrown in jail, because my dad did and we havent spoke in 7 years and i began selling to get out of his house and, got in trouble and turned my life around on my own now i'm pregnant and he will never know his grandchild and we have restraining orders on each other, while me and my mother have a great relationship as well as my friends do with their parents who grounded them and moved on like normal people, if you have to turn your kids in to the cops then you obviously just can't handle parenting them yourself
by illimitato_hustla on April 25th, 2007
oh pasobio, that is if your kid lives that long because they will have no one to call when they are drunk with their friends and need a ride home so they'll risk it, but at least you don't have "driving a drunk person home" on your record because that is so illegal that you should risk your childs life to keep your squeaky clean image
by illimitato_hustla on April 25th, 2007
My kids aren't going to parties in high school because of this. Ever. Nor will they be staying with anyone I don't approve of or have parents that allow drinking in their homes. And there will be no "just hanging out" in large groups. I've heard enough stories to tell me that this is not a good idea and it won't be happening. Add ot that my children are being raised with a strong respect for the law and that the rules apply no matter where you're at. And if they do get drunk I'm the one who will be taking them to the police station to be booked for underage drinking.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 25th, 2007
It's not that I can't handle the parenting it's that I'm raising my children in strick house hold. I want them to know right and wrong before I unleash them on the world. And it's not the squeaky calean image I'm worried about. It's making sure my children learn to respect and follow the law that is my main priority. Not being their friend. To me it sounds like you picked the parent that let you get away with murder over the one who actually tried to raise you. I suspect that when your father called the cops on you it was after years of trying to help you and you gave him no choice but to give up. Reminds me of when my brother picked his drug dealer over his family that was actually trying to help. Now he lives in a homeless shelter and has nobody. I don't want that for my kids and if one night of sitting in the drunk tank and having to answer to a judge as well as me gets them scared straight enough to act right it's a risk I'm willing to take.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 25th, 2007
pasobrio: Kids don't get drunk and do drugs because they don't know it's wrong. Even if they know that it is wrong, they will still do it, because that's how people are. Ruling your home with an iron fist is only going to ensure that your kids get into that much more trouble when they are finally unleashed into the world. Keeping them from "going out" or hanging out with friends is also NOT the way to go. It's not going to gain you any respect as a parent, and it's going to negatively impact your children. People are social, and kids need to spend time apart from the family and away from home to learn proper social skills or they will MOST definitely suffer throughout their lives for the bad choices that you make for them. I'm not saying you have to let them run wild in the streets, but giving them certain personal freedoms that all people enjoy will make them happier, healthier, well-functioning people in the long run.
by Anonymous on April 26th, 2007
Oh, my kids are going to have social lives. I will let them be in social clubs like 4-H and the Young Marines and other things that develope charecter and moral and responsable behaviour. Parting does not. On top of that you can't trust that other parents are going to respect your veiws or protect them. I also practice what I preach by living a strick lifestyle myself. But to just sit back and let your kids go out and do what ever they want because you can't stop them is ridiculous and bad parenting. In my experiance it's not the kids who are from iron fists households that go out and be stupid, it's quite the opposite. Why? The others have no boundries and they are trying to see far how it has to go before you give them what they need. And kids need boundries. You should see my friends' kids. They don't have any and they take full advantage of it. One horror story after the other followed by "Oh, well, kids will be kids." With no consequences. And they are not happy, well adjusted children. And I know why people do drugs. They want to look cool and experament, push boundries, and mask pain. I've seen it far too often. What they don't understan is that they are making it worse and harder to live productive lives.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 26th, 2007
And my fist is not that iron. I let my kids play and get dirty and be gross when it's appropreate. But I balance it out by teaching them right from wrong. I was raises iron first, my brother was not. I'm a productive member of socity, he is not. My parents let him do what he wanted because he had issues and now he's on his second drug related strike. I have only sat in police car once. And that was after my car was totaled in an accident. As for which kind of parent is respected it's more then likely the iron fist one. Why? Because their children are taught to respect adults. And they have the backbone to stand up and demand it. That's how you get a kid's respect. The other kind get treated like doormats. My friends' kids do not repect them at all and they have terrible relationships with them. Hell, they don't even find out what the kids' are up to till they're brought home by the cops or the school calls.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 26th, 2007
from all of your comments I am beginning to wonder if you actually HAVE children or you just live in a fantasy land, sure you can raise your kids to be 4-h club honor students but EVERYONE makes mistakes in life that is how we learn and grow, and for your information my father was extremely strict and didn't let me go out so I snuck out, I was grounded all the time anyway so what did I have to lose? My mother gave me a normal amount of freedom and let me make my own choices when necessary trusting her judgement and I never ever went out and did things behind her back, I always showed her respect every time I was misbehaving it was at my fathers because I rebeled because I couldn't stand him and he gave me no other choice, and neither of them allowed me to drink or get high but I didn't show that respect for my dad, sometimes not everything you do have to develop some type of quality, people need down time and kids should have fun once in awhile
by illimitato_hustla on April 28th, 2007
not necessarily by partying but what are you going to let your kid enroll in the Marines for a his birthday, I feel bad for your children because I grew up resenting my father and so will your kids, there are times when I still look back at my yearbooks and things and it says "oh maybe we can hang out this summer if you are not grounded" those are the memories I have of being a kid
by illimitato_hustla on April 28th, 2007
I'm sorry you have that hanging over you. But do you ever wounder how much of it was really the fact that your father was so strick and how much of it was because of your actions? I know I beahved myself so I wouldn't get punished. And what's wrong with the Marines? My fiancee was a proud Marine and credits joining up with straightening him out. He was the party type. He says if it wasn't for them he'd have ended up in a gutter somewhere. And we both wanted our sons to follow in his footsteps as far as the military career goes. And, yes, we all make mistakes. I've made my fair share just like anyone else. I just want to make sure that my sons make as few as possible so they don't line a life of regreat. You make it sound like if you're not out there constantly screwing up you're not living. As to my fantasy world, that child I'm holding in my avatar is my youngest son. It was taken when he was two days old. And my kids don't hate me for making them act right. In fact we have a very good and open relationship.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 28th, 2007
i have to add my two cents. Ill tell you my story. My dad has been diagnosed with cancer...twice. The first time he had cancer he lost almost ALL of his hair from Chemotherapy. He looked horrible and could barely function (mind you i wasnt alive during this time but i have seen video tape and pictures) he got over the cancer but still had some in his system. When i was born i was about 4 years old and my dad was diagnosed with cancer AGAIN. this time it had spread through his entire chest, lungs, being the most damaged. he went to a doctor in columbus and was told (in complete trust) that he should smoke one joint a day and it would help slow or even stop the cancer. So my dad started smoking pot (the doctor could not describe it so he was to get it on his own) after about 3-4 months smoking 1 joint a day you could see the difference, his color was coming back, he had gained weight, and he looked and felt better. he went to the doctor for a checkup...
by gamergirl on April 29th, 2007
the doctors told him that the cancer had stopped spreading and was starting to die off, they had enough time to take the cancer out and that was 14 years ago. He still smokes pot and he has never been healthier.
Wen i was 14 i started smoking pot behind my parents back, well my dad found out about it. He even smoked it with me sometimes, Afterawhile it was just boring, i seen no point in it. and i havent smoked for almost 2 years...(im 18 by the way) and ive never NEVER had any problem with smoking pot.
ALSO i grew up with my parents smoking almost 2 packs of cigarettes a day. You would think i would want to smoke...but i never smoked cigarettes i hate its disgusting. Ive never done any other drug, and i have never been in any trouble. My parents raised me to learn from my own mistakes. And guess what i did. I have learned that my parents are my best friends, i can tell them anything and they wont get mad. I believe listening to your kids and not being a hypocrite to what you.......
by gamergirl on April 29th, 2007
done while there age will actually prove to be rewarding. Hiding things from them is just going to make them WANT to do it more. Once my parents found out about my smoking it was boring and pointless. If you talk to your kids and try being there friend sometimes then you may learn more than you think.
How do you know that your kids have never smoked pot, or done some sort of drug, or alcohol? do you do some sort of urine test every month? honestly theres ALOT that your children will hide from you...be a friend and you may learn ALOT
by gamergirl on April 29th, 2007
I agree. Pot can help a cancer patien because it is a drug. I just wish we could find a way to get the chemicals that are in pot that do help out so that you don't get the harmefull effects like the brain damage I've seen. Or have people whio are ill getting busted by the cops. I'm gald that you stopped and have a great relationship with your parents. I'd hate to see what happened to Kris happen to you. You're too smart for that kind of life. And I always try not to be a hypocrite wih my kids. That's why I have never done the things I wouldn't want them to do. And even though I am hard on them when it comes to the house rules I do try to talk to them about stuff like drugs and relationships. And I have told them about their uncle as a cautionary tale when drugs do come up. Or when Kris's latest arrest is mentioned. Although it's kind of hard to understand Gavin. He just learned how to talk last year. And James is only seven. He doesn't go anywhere with out me just yet so a drug test isn't nessary. But if I have too when they're older I will so I can get them they help they need. I am so scared that without Jay to show them how a man is suppost to act they will take the wrong path. I have to be both mother and father to these boys so I am a little strickter then most parents.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 29th, 2007
even though you say Brain Damage i dont see how..My dad just graduated college 2 years ago he was the valedictorian and in the honor society, hes been smoking pot every day of his life for the past 14 years, and hes the smartest person i know, his IQ is like 187 or so, ive never seen anything resembling brain damage in him
by gamergirl on April 29th, 2007
I'm going by the people I know. My brother was also listed as a genius in school. And now he can barely function in socity. The intellegence may still be there, but the brain stopped working right years ago. H ealso smokes about a dime a day. And alot of the pot smokers I've worked with show signs that they may have been highly intellegent at one point, but it's gone now. I do have two friends that used to smoke that are very smart. One's a law student and another a professinal, but when you hold a conversation with them it's very easy for them to get lost or confussed if they have alot to say. Or if you talk for more then two minutes without stopping to let them catch up. And even thought the professional has stopped she still makes decissions like she's smoking when it comes to her personal life.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on April 29th, 2007
Marijuana DOES NOT CAUSE OR CONTRIBUTE TO BRAIN DAMAGE. What you consider "brain damage" is probably just good old stupidity. Marijuana doesn't cause any permanant damage to any brain functions, as studies have proven over and over and over again throughout the years. You're not a doctor, and you certainly don't have MRI-vision that would let you SEE someone's brain function (and even if you SAW it, you wouldn't be able to interpret it), YOU cannot "see" brain damage, so just quit it.
Yes, your kids WILL do what they please no matter how you have "raised them up right". I'm not saying that you should let them run wild, but depriving them of things that all kids should have (sleepovers, parties, etc) is going to backfire and blow up in your face.
As for teaching my children to respect the law... well, I beleive that MOST laws serve a purpose, and I choose to follow NO arbitrary law which makes no sense. I can only hope that my children have the sense to be free-thinkers as we
by Anonymous on May 1st, 2007
I agree 100% doobie!! nice job
by gamergirl on May 5th, 2007
Um, you might want to ask sceince_geek about that one, he's abiologist who studies the effects of drugs such as marijauna on the brain. He's seen it. I have also seen MRI's, not done them myself, from the CDC, the New England Journal of Medicine, and the FDA plus numerous phycology and pharmacology texts that show damamge to the brain due to the use of marijuana.And you don't have to be a sceintist to see the change in someone's intallect. Sometimes the best scientific toll is your own eyes and ears.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 6th, 2007
you must be pulling shit out of thin air...from all accounts there is no proof brain damage occurs and everyone i know who has ever smoked marijuana for a long period of time has shown NO signs of brain damage...and unless you show SOLID proof of what you are talking about then everything you are saying is coming off the top of your head or you are blaming aspects of your family/friends life on Marijuana...
by gamergirl on May 6th, 2007
No, I'm not. I have seen the studies and the MRIs. Both before and after shots. There's big black spots where there should be brain activity. And those spots never light back up even years later. Why? Because pot supresses brain activity that's where the happy feeling comes from. It in effect suffocates the brain with plaque. And I'm not going to debate any more. Let's just agree to disagree.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 6th, 2007
where the hell have you seen those...yes i have seen MRI's showing brain damage but not from pot...from drugs like Meth...and Cocaine, and any inhalent...but pot has no chemicals in it that cause any sort of brain damage...you must be watching those old films like "reefer madness" showing how pot kills...but there is not one single documented case of death from smoking pot...no overdose, no coma...nothing. Like i have said before my father has smoked pot for over 14 years and is one of the healthiest people i know. he is also one of the most intelligent person i have ever seen. The cases you are seeing are marijuana that is laced with other drugs such as LSD and Cocaine...in those cases brain damage can occur...but pot alone has never been proven to cause any sort of brain damage...unless you can provide a link to a site about this or a phone numer or mailing address of some sort of "proof" you are stating then what you are saying is just opinion
by gamergirl on May 6th, 2007
Okay CDC, New England, Journal of Medicine, and about a dozen pharmacologiacal and phyciatric texts. Go look for yourself or go to sceince_geek since he studies this very drug. And it really wouldn't matter what I showed you. You wouldn't belive me anyways because you're in full rant. And I want you to tell me your scientific basis for why the drug isn't harmfull. And not just from pro-pot organization or your personal experiances since you say mine are invalid. And I don't blame my brother's problems on pot. I blame them on him. He blames everyone else.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 6th, 2007
And I'm going to tell you that even though we don't agree, which we more them likely never will on this. I hope when it's all said and done we can still be friends. Because I see in you a very smart young lady who has a lot of potential.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 6th, 2007
Great answer doobie, it doesn't look like you got rated waaay down either.
by Cannabis its just a plant on July 24th, 2007
good call. Pot didnt' make your brother a loser; way too much pot did. A lack of self control. Let me know your thoughts.
by anonzo on May 11th, 2008
MRI's don't measure brain activity. You can use an MRI to measure brain volume and composition, but to measure brain ACTIVITY you need a PET scan.
Here's a tidbit from an article about marijuana smoking and brain activity:
"In the 1970's, a scientific paper was published describing cerebral atrophy in young marijuana users," Block said. "The paper was widely publicized and quoted for some time regarding the harmful effects of marijuana, but other researchers did not find any cerebral atrophy. Neuroimaging techniques have improved tremendously over the years, and we wanted to see whether these improved techniques would show decreases in brain tissue in any parts of the marijuana users' brains. We found no evidence of atrophy or any other harmful effects of frequent marijuana use on brain structure."
From http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/03/000331090541.htm
by Anonymous on May 11th, 2008
Pot doesn't hurt your brain, it just makes you lazy.
So if you smoke, do it with self control. End.
Also pot rocks. hooray!
by anonzo on May 11th, 2008
LOL. Make it legal and tax it. I think booze is way more harmful. I know people from my mother's generation think it's perfectly okay to have a few drinks or even more than a few and then weave on home on the nation's highways. These same people would have six kinds of cow if they knew their kids or grandkids were smoking some weed and staying home with a few silly movies to watch.
by debsmooth on May 11th, 2008
People don't understand that pot isn't some "party drug" that makes people go out and act up in public. "Habitual" pot smokers do most of their smoking at home (after a long day of work, before bed) and generally don't even leave the house while under the influence. Of course, I'm speaking for the older generation of pot smokers and not the teenage kids who are "experimenting" out on the street with their friends.
by Anonymous on May 12th, 2008
I started experimenting with eating my pot. Guess what? Awesome. Grind it and put it in gelcaps. Eating a bowl is way mo betta than smoking it yo.
by anonzo on May 12th, 2008
Eating it never seemed to do too much for me. I ate too much once and was a slight wreck for a day but not in the same way as smoke high. In a sort of numb, drooling way. And my poor heart was hammering away from it. Great that it works for you. Your lungs will thank you. Smoking is hard on the lungs. It's been months and months for me now since I had any and my lungs are very much clearer.
by debsmooth on May 12th, 2008
Thats good. I started eating it because i thought smoking irritated my sinuses, contributing to tension migraines i would get. Since i started eating it, i have yet to experience a migraine. All the tension is gone.
but you can't eat too much. =)
by anonzo on May 12th, 2008
Guess what, guys, I'm right now helping a freind of mine through THC withdraw because of what her smoking pot did to her family. Especially her kids due to her impaired judgement. Not pretty. And my brother's in jail again because even though pot doesn't cause anyone any problems he can't seem to stay away from it long enough to stay out of jail. By the way the MRI was to measure the amount of damage he had done to himself. Which does show up because they found holes. You can keep lying to yourself that what you are doing is perfectly harmless. When it's really as harmless as that drunk weaving down the road at 2 A.M. It's just a diffrent kind of death.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 12th, 2008
Yeah. Not really. Its more like you would be hard pressed to find a documented case where a person was ruled DOA as a result of ingesting too much marijuana. The closest you would get, is someone who got too stoned to drive and foolishly drove. And no one has THC withdrawals. That shit is ridiculous. Your brother needs to be smart enough not to smoke pot, when he knows 100% that he will be drug tested. They get you in the system on the false premise that pot is a dangerous drug, and keep you there as long as you refuse to learn to play by their rules.
There is more damage done to you through genetically modified food most of us eat, the fluoride in your drinking water, and live-cancer viruses in your vaccines. Thats what you should be worrying about.
by anonzo on May 12th, 2008
Pasobrio, I still hold firm in my belief that your brother has far bigger problems than pot. My guess would be that he's suffering from some untreated mental illness, and the pot "addiction" is really just a manifestation of that illness (people with personality disorders are apt to become addicted to things that the rest of us wouldn't... things that aren't physically addictive like pot, gambling, sex, etc. They are also more prone to continue their risky behaviors even though they KNOW it's damaging, because they lack the normal level of impulse control that the rest of us enjoy).
If you'd read the link I posted a few comments back, you'd have read that research shows pot has no effect on the composition of the brain. It does not physically damage the structure of the brain. You will observe areas of decreased neural activity in areas that control memory, cognition, small motor functions and things like that, but pot does NOT physically damage the brain the way you're implying.
by Anonymous on May 13th, 2008
Anonzo, pot may not be physically addictive. However, addicts do experience withdrawals from psychological addictions. The physical symptoms aren't as severe as one would experience from, say, heroin or alcohol but they aren't nonexistent either. A person who is recovering from a psychological addiction to something (sex, shopping, the internet - to name a few) can suffer from pronounced irritability, inability to concentrate, loss of appetite or binge eating, vomiting, nervousness and anxiety, panic attacks, depression and even full-blown manic or psychotic episodes.
The reason for this is in your brain. Addiction works a funny kind of magic on the chemical balances in the brain. When you remove the addictive substance or activity, those pleasure sensors (receptors is what they're actually called) in the brain struggle to resume normal function.
by Anonymous on May 13th, 2008
I completely agree with you. I just didn't like the characterization of 'THC withdrawal' as something so severe it requires significant family support. Getting off of Prozac/Zoloft made me infinitely more ill than any of the times i've had to cease ingestion of maryjanez, and still didn't require that I have someone help me.
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Good point Anonymous.
by anonzo on May 13th, 2008
anonzo: If you aren't addicted to something, then removing it from your life won't cause you to have withdrawals from it. Withdrawal is what happens when an ADDICT comes off of an addictive substance (or activity - I keep pointing that out because people don't understand that a person can become addicted to ANYTHING that stimulates those pleasure receptors in our brains. It doesn't have to be something you ingest into your body. People are addicted to feelings ALL the time. The feeling you get during sex, the feeling of betting all your money on a hand of blackjack, anything that causes a pleasurable feeling).
Pot isn't physically addictive (meaning there's nothing in the way THC affects your brain that would cause the average person to become addicted) but for some people (who are prone to addiction because of underlying mental and/or physical illnesses, childhood trauma, environmental and genetic factors). THC withdrawal may not affect the general populous of pot smokers
by Anonymous on May 13th, 2008
because the vast majority of them aren't addicted. When someone who IS addicted suffers withdrawals, it can be severe enough to warrant significant family AND medical support.
by Anonymous on May 13th, 2008
THC withdrawal? Man. People can work themselves up into quite a Crucible-like frenzy over totally unfounded beliefs. There are NO documented cases of death by marjuana or THC poisoning and NO documented long-term physical consequences to the brain with continued use. article on WebMD http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20030701/heavy-marijuana-use-doesnt-damage-brain
I think it's time to nut up Pasobrio and recognize that your brother has other more pressing issues than a Marijuana problem. Some folks should not take any kind of central nervous system altering substance and may even need antipsychotics. I hope he gets the counseling and meds he needs instead of just blaming the weed.
by debsmooth on May 13th, 2008
00000
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
Of course people who use drugs have underlying mental illness. That's why it's called self medicating. It's also why normal people don't use the crap. Nobody should be using any kind of mood altering drugs unless they are under a doctor's care. And I don't care what it is. No long term effects? Bull. You can tell someone who used to smoke weed years after they stopped. As for my brother he did have treatable problems, but no mental illness. Then he started using drugs and now he's a chemically created sociopath who can become quite aggitaed and paranoid when he doesn't have weed. Even violent. Anyone want to spend some time with him when he's in one of those states? You want to know why the weed is blamed? Because it's part of the problem and you have to look at every contributing factor to understand a problem. Weed is a substance that increases problems that were already there and it has nothing to do with it being illegal. Hell, it used to be legal till we took a good hard look at what it was doing to socity. That's why it was made illegal in the 1940's right along with herion. It's a shame we've forgotten those lessons we learned back then.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
Nobody may have died from smoking it, but that doesn't mean it's perfectly safe and all good to use. Just ask the baby who cooked to death on the raidiator while his parents spent 18 hours getting high. And statistically you'll find more children die under the care of someone under the influnce of drugs, including weed, then alcholo when you compare by percentage.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
And that whole part about the gentically enhanced food and the cancer causing vaccines is exactly what I expect someone who's looking for some where else to transfer the blame to go. Only problemis if any of that were true then every one would have those problems and not just a small segement of the population. What's funny is envarably when I talk to some one who has these problems or who has a child who does some where along the lines they admit something to me they won't even admit to the doctors. And that is a history of drug use including weed. By the way humans still aren't being directly fed gentically enhanced foods. Only livestock is.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
Who eats the livestock genius?
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http://www.infowars.com/?p=1048
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And if kills honeybees, it will just take a little bit longer to kill you. You have some messed up ideas dude. This affects ALL of us, not just a small segment of the population. These are the real issues, not ridiculous scare tactics like 'that baby that got cooked while the parents got high.' A pot smoker that smoked for 18 hours, would either have to stop to get something to eat or pass out. After an hour.
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Your brother probably has fits of rage because he is unstable to begin with, combined with a fucked up life because of poor decisions.
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Making pot illegal was an economic decision, because it was associated with Mexicans it was easy to get people afraid of it. Hemp in the colonial days was used to make EVERYTHING, like clothes, rope, paper, etc etc. It outlasted anything made of cotton and couldn't be beat for comfort.
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I'm done with you Pasobrio, there is no reaching some people.
by anonzo on May 13th, 2008
Reading your earlier comments it becomes apparent you have a tendency, i suspect, to just invent facts without citing them. C'mon buddy. Really?
by anonzo on May 13th, 2008
LOL. I know. I was explaining to someone at work the impact of plastics in the ocean on the human food chain and she said "Ooo ick! I don't eat any fish." I had to patiently explain that livestock eat fishmeal, often contaminated fishmeal. And the assertion of our resident expert on drugs that all people who use drugs have an underlying mental illness? What exactly are you basing that one on? I think you just like simplistic explanations because they feel good for you. And how do you tell someone who has smoked weed for years after they have stopped? If your bro becomes agitated and paranoid without weed then get that man a scrip and let him have the danged weed. Sheesh. If it keeps the poor blighter calm then that sounds like a win. Blaming one component of a person's lifestyle for all their problems isn't even logical. It's likely he has a lot going on. Mental illness can come out at any time in a person's life. Sorry he's having probs.
by debsmooth on May 13th, 2008
That baby that got cooked when the parents got high was an actual muder case not a scare tatic. It really happened. And they did pass out. Leaving that baby alone on the bed to rol between the matress and the radiator. I know because I followed the case just like I did the mother and her boyfriend who used to get high and then dry needle tattoo her two old twins till they beat the one to death. All on pot. By the way the father of those girl's did my tattoo.
The scare tatics are the junk sceince these groups use to blame their problems on the food they eat. What I'm saying is if these things were so dangerous the problems would be wide spread and not limited to a small segment of the population like they actually are. If vaccines really caused cancer we'd all have cancer if we got a vaccine. Doesn't happen.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
No, making pot illegal was not economic. Yet another myth that potheads circulate to try to villify the government. Yes, hemp, not maraguainia makes good rope and such. But it's not the same thing. Theyr'e realated plants that get easily confussed.
I have made none of this up unlik ethe lobbiest who want to make pot legal.
]By the way my brother is not the oly pot head I know who becomes irrational and violent when he can't get any. It's actually pretty common.
You better believe that people who self medicate have some form of underlying mental illness or have suffered soem form of abuse. If you actually read any medical texts it's all over the place when discussing addictions. No, we are not going to give my brother a scrip for the very substance that exaserbated his problems and calll it all good. That's like giving some one with heart problems pure lard to eat and then woundering why he has a heart attack. What's funny is you guys can't see that. You'll say or do anything to make a bad act okay even if it's hurting you and your family .And you're right it's a real pain in the ass trying to peice a drug haze so someone sees the light.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
You want to know how you can tell? Slower thinking, trouble concentrating, poor motor skills, and low social skills with high immaturity. Start asking what they used to do for fun and low and behold they used to smoke pot! I'm not just blamong the pot and i have said that over and over again. I'm only talking about it and it's effects singularly because that's what the question was about.
by P. W. Pasobrio loves Marines on May 13th, 2008
Not ALL drug users are mentally ill, and not ALL mentally ill people use drugs. There are certain mental illnesses that significantly increase one's likelihood of abusing drugs (ABUSE, not addiction - there's a big difference). Additionally, the reason marijuana is illegal FEDERALLY is because the individual states started criminalizing it once more immigrants started coming over from Mexico - because there was a big racial to-do about Mexicans being "crazy potheads" and degenerates (even though we as Americans had been smoking pot for years before the FIRST Mexican came across the border). Since it was illegal in the states, that meant you couldn't register as a person who traded in marijuana and receive your tax stamps without incriminating yourself. READ: The Timothy Leary case against the US government, which lead to the Controlled Substances Act (the first law that made possession of marijuana illegal in the United States). It wasn't because it was "dangerous",
by Anonymous on May 14th, 2008
it was because the government could NO LONGER TAX IT. The Marijuana tax act was repealed as "unconstitutional", and pot was now illegal to sell AND possess in all 50 states and federally. REPEAT: Pot was not made illegal because it's dangerous, it was made illegal as a result of the Tax Act that regulated the sale of marijuana was deemed "unconstitutional", which meant the government could no longer regulate the growth and sale of marijuana within the United States. The criminalization of marijuana in the individual states was a result of racial stereotyping and scare tactics (Blacks, hispanics, etc will smoke marijuana and rape white women - blah, blah).
The "irrationality" and violent behavior you describe in marijuana users who "can't get any" is typical of withdrawal symptoms. Since marijuana addiction is NOT typical, again I have to speculate that your brother's addiction to marijuana is CAUSED by his underlying psychotic tendencies and not visa versa.
by Anonymous on May 14th, 2008
I understand your wanting to blame his behavior on drugs, but that's an easy out. I'd be far more concerned with his mental health than pinning all his problems on a substance that doesn't cause these problems in the vast majority of users. Didn't you say your brother had been sexually abused as a child or teenager? Do you have a history of mental illness in your family? Did your brother exhibit any antisocial behaviors BEFORE he started smoking pot? I cannot stress enough that pot simply isn't addictive to "normal" people. How old is your brother, Pasobrio? I'd worry about undiagnosed bipolar disorder (especially if he has psychotic episodes) or a schizo-effective disorder or antisocial personality disorder.
by Anonymous on May 14th, 2008
Pasobrio, you are so full of sh*t. My boss is an ex-pothead and he's sharp as a tack. Manages a large and complex department and makes it look easy. He's a father of 4, dedicated, hard-working and has better social skills than you do. I know teachers, medical professionals who work in triage, computer programmers, lawyers LOADS OF FUNCTIONAL PEOPLE with great careers, happy families and mortgages they pay on time who all do or did pot on a regular basis. The people who treat you in the ER? They do pot. Get over yourself. Your brother is a mess and you are a mess but it's very unlikely the pot your parents did or that he did messed either of you up. People like you are in love with being messed up. With convenient labels for your specific kind of messed-up and love to style yourselves as victims so you can blame everything else in the world for your messed-upness. Anything can be abused to a deleterious extent. ANYTHING. From Quarter-Pounders with cheese to sleeping pills to weed.
by debsmooth on May 14th, 2008
I feel you, debsmooth, that's why I keep emphasizing to her that pot addiction isn't typical. She wants to demonize pot for her problems and her family's problems when it's obvious to even the most casual observer as myself that there must be some underlying psychological issues at hand here that exist comorbidly with his drug addiction.
by Anonymous on May 14th, 2008
I should calm down. It's just such a cop out to blame external things instead of looking inside at personal history or working through underlying issues with a good counselor. They outlawed alcohol and that just built a huge crime network. People did not stop drinking the stuff. They just demonized it and pointed at it for a host of social ills that continued or worsened when alocohol became illegal. Instead of just having a drinking problem you also became a lawbreaker. And that is exactly what happened to weed. Humans have taken inebriants for as long as there have been humans. It is a human tendency to do so. Learning to do such things responsibly and within reason is part of GROWING UP. So if a person is abusing anything at all, from McDonald's to booze to pills to weed they have other issues at the root. Maybe issues that stem from poorly formed childhood attachments or emotional abuse. The substance does not control them. They control (or fail to control) their own impulses.
by debsmooth on May 14th, 2008
BTW. I am a causual user of weed. Perhaps once a week kind of user. Sometimes would go without for weeks. Months. When I found out I was pregnant how long do you expect it took me to quit? About the time it takes you to read this. I had no pangs. No cravings. No withdrawal. No side effects. I did not go psycho or violent. Sometimes I feel tense and wish I could have a bit but I would never do so while carrying a child or even while breastfeeding a child. The last time I was preg I did the same. Touched nothing, not even tylenol for the 9 months and a 20 month period of breastfeeding. My daughter is a brilliant little girl of 7 now. Not a hair wrong with her.
by debsmooth on May 14th, 2008