How Cannabis Use Affects the Developing Brain

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Psychologist Elaine Rosa obtained two master’s degrees and a doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Elaine Rosa has worked as a psychologist in multiple healthcare settings and has extensive experience with adolescent clients managing mental illness and substance use dependency, including those abusing marijuana.

To gain a better understanding of how marijuana use impacts early brain development, researchers have studied how drug use affects teenagers. Many aspects of the brain’s executive function capacities, including problem-solving, emotional regulation, and impulse control develop during adolescence. Studies have indicated that heavy cannabis use may hinder this growth and result in a smaller limbic system and poorer impulse control. 

A study conducted by Canadian researchers also found that the negative cognitive effects of increased marijuana use can linger for up to a year. Due to the destruction of the neuroreceptors that process feelings of pleasure, chronic marijuana use is also correlated with amotivational syndrome, a condition that is symptomatically similar to depression.