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Title: The Effects of Legalizing Cannabis on Youth Development

Citation Type: Miscellaneous

Publication Year: 2023

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Abstract: This study investigates the potential effects of legalizing cannabis on youth development by examining the associations between state-level policy changes and key indicators of academic performance, substance use, and cognitive functioning. Using data from the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (American Community Survey), we explore the impact of legalizing cannabis on youth marijuana use, SAT scores, cognitive difficulty, and dropout rates. Our findings suggest that legalizing cannabis, either medically or recreationally, has a negative impact on SAT math and writing/verbal scores and may lead to increased dropout rates among youth. However, there is no significant effect on marijuana use, and the effect on cognitive difficulty is limited. These findings emphasize the need for policymakers to consider the potential negative impact of legalizing cannabis on youth development and implement measures to mitigate any potential harm.

Url: https://www.uakron.edu/economics/academics/senior-projects/2023/sekoukseniorprojectspring2023.pdf

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Authors: Larack Kaba, Sekou

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Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Health

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