Americans Perceptions About the Use of Medical Marijuana

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Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine individual’s perceptions about the use of medical marijuana. One hundred participants will be randomly selected to represent their perception about the use of medical marijuana. Data will be collected using a survey method, participants will be asked a series of questions regarding why they support or oppose medical marijuana. The researcher will conduct interviews to get a better understanding of why majority of the participants perceive the use of medical marijuana the way they do. The researcher will focus on why medical marijuana supporters feel it is beneficial to use the medicine and what problems does the medicine cure. The independent variable is the characteristics of participants throughout this experiment. The dependent variable will be measuring the perceptions of the participants. The hypothesis for the experiment is that if people support medical marijuana they perceive it as a way to relieve aches, pains, depression, anxiety, sleeping difficulties, etc., but if they oppose medical marijuana they will perceive medical marijuana as dangerous and harmful to the body.

Americans Perceptions about the Use of Medical Marijuana

Social conservatives find themselves allied with many urban liberals in opposing medical- marijuana laws (McCaffrey, 2009). Opponents frequently make the "gateway" argument--that marijuana users are more likely to begin using more powerful and socially destructive drugs such as cocaine and heroin (McCaffrey, 2009). Smoking marijuana is more dangerous than smoking tobacco, opponents assert, because marijuana cigarettes contain even more carcinogenic (cancer-causing) substances than tobacco ones (McCaffrey, 2009). Cannabis is used to treat many medical conditions and symptoms (McCaffrey, 2009). It is effective in treating nausea, loss of appetite, pain, anxiety, insomnia, inflammation and muscle spasms (McCaffrey, 2009). These symptoms are often part of physical or mental conditions. Arthritis, cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, ADHD and post-traumatic stress disorder are some conditions cannabis can help treat (Capler, 2009). Scientists studying marijuana's potential medical uses have found that it may help treat a variety of conditions such as nausea.

Medical Marijuana

The mind-altering ingredient in marijuana is called THC, which stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (DePietro, 2013). The amount of THC in marijuana varies. It is common for marijuana to contain anywhere from one to seven percent THC (DePietro, 2013). When THC enters the body, it attaches to and stimulates cannabinoid receptors in the brain. The stimulation of these receptors affects the body in various ways and may reduce pain and increase appetite. (DePietro, 2013). Though some doctors and patients suggest marijuana has a legitimate use, the United States government disagrees (Mayo Clinic, 2006). Federal law recognizes marijuana as a Schedule I drug, which classifies it as one of "the most dangerous drugs that have no recognized medical use (Mayo Clinic, 2006).” Smoking marijuana poses several health risks, including: impairment of thinking, problem-solving skills and memory, reduced balance and coordination, increased risk of heart attack, heightened risk of chronic cough and respiratory infections, and potential for hallucinations and withdrawal symptoms (Mayo Clinic, 2006).

The Supporters Perception on the Use of Medical Marijuana

One of the most egregious outcomes of marijuana prohibition is that many sick people cannot legally access the medicine that works best for them (Drug Policy Alliance, 2015). For many seriously ill people, medical marijuana is the only medicine that relieves their pain and suffering, or treats symptoms of their medical condition, without debilitating side effects (Drug Policy Alliance, 2015). In February 2010 investigators at the University of California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research publicly announced the findings of a series of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials on the medical utility of inhaled cannabis (Armentano, 2015). The studies, which utilized the so-called 'gold standard' FDA clinical trial design, concluded that marijuana ought to be a "first line treatment" for patients with neuropathy and other serious illnesses (Armentano, 2015). Several of studies conducted by the Center assessed smoked marijuana's ability to alleviate neuropathic pain, a notoriously difficult to treat type of nerve pain associated with cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, spinal cord injury and many other debilitating conditions (Armentano, 2015). Each of the trials found that cannabis consistently reduced patients' pain levels to a degree that was as good or better than currently available medications (Armentano, 2015). Another study conducted by the Center's investigators assessed the use of marijuana as a treatment for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (Armentano, 2015). That study determined that "smoked cannabis was superior to placebo in reducing spasticity and pain in patients with MS, and provided some benefit beyond currently prescribed treatments (Armentano, 2015). " A summary of the Center's clinical trials, published in 2012 in the Open Neurology Journal, concluded: "Evidence is accumulating that cannabinoids may be useful medicine for certain indications (Armentano, 2015). The classification of marijuana as a Schedule I drug as well as the continuing controversy as to whether or not cannabis is of medical value are obstacles to medical progress in this area (Armentano, 2015). Based on evidence currently available the Schedule I classification is not tenable; it is not accurate that cannabis has no medical value, or that information on safety is lacking (Armentano, 2015). " Around the globe, similarly controlled trials are also taking place (Armentano, 2015). A 2010 review by researchers in Germany reports that since 2005 there have been 37 controlled studies assessing the safety and efficacy of marijuana and its naturally occurring compounds in a total of 2,563 subjects (Armentano, 2015). By contrast, many FDA-approved drugs go through far fewer trials involving far fewer subjects (Armentano, 2015). In fact, according a 2014 review paper published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the median number of pivotal trials performed prior to FDA drug approval is no more than two and over one-third of newly approved pharmaceuticals are brought to market on the basis of only a single pivotal trial (Armentano, 2015). As clinical research into the therapeutic value of cannabinoids has proliferated so too has investigators' understanding of cannabis' remarkable capability to combat disease (Armentano, 2015). Whereas researchers in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s primarily assessed cannabis' ability to temporarily alleviate various disease symptoms -- such as the nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy -- scientists today are exploring the potential role of cannabinoids to modify disease (Armentano, 2015). Cannabinoids possess a remarkable safety record, particularly when compared to other therapeutically active substances, particularly prescription drugs. (Armentano, 2015). Most significantly, the consumption of marijuana, regardless of quantity or potency, cannot induce a fatal overdose (Armentano, 2015). According to a 1995 review prepared for the World Health Organization, "There are no recorded cases of overdose fatalities attributed to cannabis, and the estimated lethal dose for humans extrapolated from animal studies is so high that it cannot be achieved by users (Armentano, 2015)."

The Opposing Views on the Use of Medical Marijuana

There is some evidence to suggest that stoned subjects exhibit increased risk-taking and impaired decision-making, and score worse on memory tasks—and residual impairments have been detected days or even weeks after use (Richards, 2013). Some studies also link years of regular marijuana use to deficits in memory, learning, and concentration (Richards, 2013). Richards (2013) stated that “Some researchers are more worried about the drug in conjunction with other substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, or cocaine. Some studies suggest, for example, that marijuana may increase cravings for other drugs, leading to its infamous tag as a “gateway drug.” A study published in 2013 supported this theory when it found that, at least in rats, THC exposure increases tobacco’s addictive effects. Furthermore, marijuana may not mix well with prescription drugs, as cannabis causes the liver to metabolize drugs more slowly, raising the risk of drug toxicity.” Side effects of marijuana that usually does not last long can include: dizziness, drowsiness, short-term memory loss, and euphoria (Harding, 2013). One of the arguments against the use of medical marijuana centers around its increased risk of both acute psychosis and chronic mental illness, including schizophrenia (Bergeson, 2015). According to Bergeson (2015), Dr. Stanley Zammit and associates found a strong significant relationship between marijuana use and increased risk of psychosis, including severe anxiety, depression and suicidal tendencies. Dr. Sonija Luzi and associates, at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, state that two primary chemical agents found in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol and endocannabinoids, proved largely responsible for inducing the psychotic symptoms in marijuana users. Marijuana is often a stepping stone leading to heroin, cocaine, or other harder drugs use. According to Garcla (2014) studies show that marijuana users often progress to the use of harder drugs. After people experiment with what is considered to be a harmless drug, they seek out a bigger high and users turn to harder drugs such as heroin, LSD, cocaine, etc. (Garcla, 2014). Most people will not start by abusing harder drugs but marijuana use emboldens them to experiment. Garcla (2014) also stated that the dangers of secondhand cigarette smoke are well-known. More widespread usage of marijuana increases the likelihood that people would suffer the damage of inhaling other people's smoke. Public places like bars would expose innocent patrons and in the home roommates, kids, and spouses would face increased exposure, increasing the health damage to society (Garcla, 2014). Garcla (2014) concludes that legalization of marijuana would lead to a shift toward an anything goes mentality, causing more drugs to gain acceptance and advocacy of the legalization of harder drugs. Drugs like heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines, which we view now as unacceptable for legalization may eventually be sold over the counter at every corner drug store (Garcla, 2014). Smoking anything, whether it's tobacco or marijuana, can seriously damage your lung tissue (Morrow, 2016). Not enough evidence supports marijuana as an effective pain relieving agent (Morrow, 2016). Marijuana carries a risk of abuse and addiction (Morrow, 2016). Smoked marijuana contains cancer-causing compounds (Morrow, 2016). Smoked marijuana has been implicated in a high percentage of automobile crashes and workplace accidents (Morrow, 2016). In teens, marijuana use is linked with a number of negative consequences, including impaired short-term memory and decreased concentration, which may interfere with learning (Rettner, 2015). Temporary alterations in reaction time and motor control while under the influence of marijuana may also contribute to deaths and injuries among teens, especially if the teen is driving a car while under the influence (Rettner, 2015). Some studies have also found that marijuana use in adolescence is linked with lower odds of graduating from high school (Rettner, 2015). According to Thurstone (2013) the American Medical Association believes that cannabis is a dangerous drug and as such is a public health concern; sale and possession of cannabis should not be legalized.

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Recapitulation

This proposal will be conducted to examine how the supporters of medical marijuana felt and how the non-supporters felt about the use of medical marijuana. The researcher focuses on why supporters perceive medical marijuana in the way that they do, what are their reasons behind using medical marijuana and what studies have been done to prove that it benefits people instead of hurting people. Another focus is why the opposing group of participants feel the way they do about the use of medical marijuana, why they feel that medical marijuana harms you. The independent variable is the characteristics of participants throughout this experiment. The dependent variable will be measuring the perceptions of the participants. The hypothesis for the experiment is that if people support medical marijuana they perceive it as a way to relieve aches, pains, depression, anxiety, sleeping difficulties, etc., but if they oppose medical marijuana they will perceive medical marijuana as dangerous and harmful to the body. The researcher will present a description of the methods that will be used to conduct the research in the next section.

Methods

Participants

There will be one hundred participants randomly selected to represent their perception about Medical Marijuana. The participants will be of ages from 21 years of age and over. Participants will be selected randomly throughout Atlanta, Ga. Research Design This is an exploratory study, which will analyze Americans perceptions about the use of Medical Marijuana. The participants in this study will choose whether they support or oppose the use of medical marijuana and why?

Materials

An online survey will be distributed to the participants. The participants will be examined on their perceptions about the use of medical marijuana. A consent form will be administered.

Procedure

The researcher will explain the experiment to the participants; the purpose of the experiment and why he/she is needed to conduct the study. After the terms and conditions of the study are reviewed, the participants will be asked to electronically sign the consent form. Immediately after signing their signature, they will be directed to answer the survey given.

Data Processing and Analysis

The researcher will collect the data by assessing the participant’s survey responses. The data collected will play a key part in determining Americans perceptions about the use of medical marijuana. The variables of the study are characteristics and perceptions of the participants.

Summary

There will be one hundred participants randomly selected to represent their perception about Medical Marijuana. This is an exploratory study, which will analyze Americans perceptions about the use of Medical Marijuana. The participants in this study will choose whether they support or oppose the use of medical marijuana and why? An online survey will be distributed to the participants. The researcher will explain the experiment to the participants; the purpose of the experiment and why he/she is needed to conduct the study. After the terms and conditions of the study are reviewed, the participants will be asked to electronically sign the consent form. Immediately after signing their signature, they will be directed to answer the survey given. The data collected will play a key part in determining Americans perceptions about the use of medical marijuana.

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References

Armentano, P. (2015, August 28). Recent Research on Medical Marijuana. Retrieved from http://norml.org/component/zoo/category/recent-research-on-medical-marijuana Bergeson, B. (2015, July 22). Cons of Medical Marijuana. Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/131459-cons-medical-marijuana/ Capler, R. (2009). Why People Use Cannabis. Retrieved from http://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/visions/cannabis-vol5/why-people-use-cannabis#sthash.iPfVLRC4.dpuf C.M. (2006, August 25). Marijuana as medicine: Consider the pros and cons. Retrieved from http://www.riversideonline.com/health_reference/articles/ga00014.cfm DePietro, M. (2013, December 5). Medical Marijuana. Retrieved from http://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana#Risks4 Garcia, C. (2014, March 17). Legal Marijuana Pros and Cons: Medical Marijuana in Los Angeles Changing Laws for Doctor's Prescriptions. Retrieved from http://www.latinpost.com/articles/9053/20140317/legal-marijuana-pros-and-cons-medical-marijuana-in-los-angeles-changing-laws-for-doctor-prescriptions.htm McCaffrey, B. (2009, July 16). Medical Marijuana. Retrieved from http://www.mccc.edu/pdf/eng024/premajor/Allied%20Health%20Science%20ENG024/Medical%20Marijuana%20-%20Issues%20and%20Controversies.pdf Morrow, A. (2016, March 2). What are the Pros and Cons of Medical Marijuana? Retrieved from http://dying.about.com/od/symptommanagement/f/med_mj_procon.htm Rettner, R. (2015, January 26). Pediatricians Oppose Medical Marijuana, With Some Exceptions. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/27/pediatricians-medical-marijuana_n_6557600.html Richards, S. (2013, January 23). Is Cannabis Really That Bad? Retrieved from http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/34110/title/Is-Cannabis-Really-That-Bad-/

APPENDIX A CONSENT FORM Clark Atlanta University Department of Psychology Informed Consent Title: Americans Perceptions About the Use of Medical Marijuana Principal Investigator: Romello Vann Research Advisor: Dr. Diane L. Plummer I. Purpose You are invited to participate in a research study. The purpose of the study is to identify and understand the perceptions Americans have about the use of medical marijuana. This study is being done for an Independent Research Course. II. Procedures If you decide to participate, you will complete a survey. The survey includes questions about your age, race, thoughts, and attitudes. It will take no more than 10 minutes to complete. III. Risks In this study, you will not have any more risks than you would in a normal day of life. IV. Benefits Participation in this study may not benefit you personally. Overall, we hope to gain information on Americans perception about the use of medical marijuana. V. Voluntary Participation and Withdrawal Participation in this research is voluntary. If you decide to participate in the study and later change your mind, you have the right to drop out at any time or ask that your data is removed. You will not be reprimanded in any way if you choose to withdraw. VI. Confidentiality We will keep your records private to the extent allowed by law. Only Romello Vann and Dr. Plummer will have access to see your data. Only your age and race will be collected; no one will know your personal identity. The information will be stored on a computer that is password protected and belongs to the Researcher. Copies of the Consent Form will remain on a computer that also belongs to the Researcher. The findings will be summarized and stated in group form only. VII. Contact Persons If there are any questions, contact the Research Assistant: Romello Vann, romellovann@yahoo.com. You can also contact Dr. Diane Plummer if you have any concerns or questions, dplummer@cau.edu or 404.880.8238. If you feel that your rights as a Research Participant have been violated, you may also contact the Clark Atlanta University Institutional Review Board 404.880.8000. VIII. Copy of Consent Form to Subject Please keep a copy of this consent form for your records. If you are willing to volunteer for this research, please sign below. ____________________________________________ _________________ Participant Date _____________________________________________ _________________ Principal Investigator or Research Assistant Date Appendix B Email sent to participants Hello, Firstly, I would like to thank all of you for deciding to partake in this experiment. For the next 10 minutes you will be answering survey questions on Americans perceptions about the use of medical marijuana. You are responsible for answering all of the questions asked truthfully. Once you are done, click submit at the bottom of the page, which will send your results in. Below is what is needed to complete the study. If you have any questions, contact me, romellovann@yahoo.com 1. The survey must be answered truthfully 2. No questions can be skipped 3. Click submit when finished Appendix C Survey Questions 1. Are you 21 years of age or older? 2. How old are you? 3. What is your race/ethnicity? 4. Have you ever used medical marijuana? 5. How do you feel about the use of medical marijuana? Please explain thoroughly!

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