Marijuana has become more widely available in recent years due to the legalization of both medical and recreational use in many states. With this increased availability, it’s important for parents to have open and honest conversations with their teenagers about marijuana and its potential risks. This is especially true when it comes to edibles, which can be easily mistaken for regular snacks and may have a stronger effect than smoking or vaping. In a recent Teenagers and Marijuana Survey conducted by SurveyInsiders we asked users their thoughts on the legalization of marijuana and how it can affect teenagers.
If you’re a parent who is unsure how to start the conversation with your teenager about marijuana and edibles, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Do Your Research: Before talking to your teenager about marijuana and edibles, it’s important to educate yourself on the topic. This includes understanding the different forms of marijuana and their effects, as well as the legal status of marijuana in your state. There are also many resources available online, including articles and videos, that can help you prepare for the conversation.
- Set Clear Expectations: When it comes to discussing marijuana and edibles with your teenager, it’s important to be clear about your expectations. Make it clear that you do not condone the use of marijuana or other drugs, and that you expect your teenager to avoid using them. It’s also important to discuss the consequences of breaking these expectations, such as losing privileges or facing legal consequences.
- Discuss the Risks and Consequences: It’s important for teenagers to understand the potential risks and consequences of using marijuana and edibles. These can include impaired judgment, decreased reaction time, and difficulty with memory and concentration. Edibles can also be more potent than smoking or vaping, and the effects can take longer to kick in, which can lead to unintentional overconsumption.
- Listen to Your Teenager: While it’s important to set clear expectations and discuss the risks and consequences of using marijuana and edibles, it’s also important to listen to your teenager. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts and feelings on the topic. This can help you better understand their perspective and address any concerns they may have.
- Talk About Peer Pressure: Many teenagers may feel pressure from their peers to try marijuana or other drugs. It’s important to discuss this with your teenager and provide them with strategies for resisting peer pressure. Encourage them to find alternative activities to do with their friends and to surround themselves with positive influences.
- Be Honest: When discussing marijuana and edibles with your teenager, it’s important to be honest. This includes being upfront about your own experiences with marijuana or other drugs, if applicable. By being honest, you can build trust with your teenager and encourage them to be honest with you in return.
- Discuss the Legal Risks: In addition to the potential health risks, it’s important for teenagers to understand the legal risks of using marijuana and edibles. Depending on the laws in your state, they could face fines, community service, or even jail time for possessing or using marijuana.
- Offer Support: If your teenager is struggling with substance use, it’s important to offer support and resources. This could include counseling or support groups, or even a trusted adult that your teenager can talk to. Let your teenager know that you are there to support them and help them make healthy choices.
- Keep the Conversation Going: Talking to your teenager about marijuana and edibles should be an ongoing conversation, rather than a one-time event. Make it clear that they can come to you with any questions or concerns they may have in the future. You can also provide them with resources, such as books or websites, to help them continue learning about the topic.
- Emphasize the importance of making responsible choices: This includes making informed decisions about their health and well-being, as well as being aware of the impact of their actions on others. Encourage your teenager to think critically about their choices and to consider the consequences before taking any actions related to marijuana or other drugs.
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Want details on our latest data? Check out the Teenagers and Marijuana Survey Analysis
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