New Marijuana: Higher Potency, Greater Dangers 2011
Distributed by Human Relations Media, 41 Kensico Drive, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549; 800-431-2050
Produced by Anson W. Schloat
Directed by Anson W. Schloat
DVD, color, 14 min.
Jr. High - College
Addiction Studies, Adolescence, Drug Education, Drug Use, Crime, Health Sciences, Marijuana, Psychology
Date Entered: 04/22/2011
Reviewed by Sue F. Phelps, Washington State University, Vancouver, WAToday’s marijuana has more than twice the concentration of the psychoactive ingredient THC than the marijuana of the nineteen eighties; therefore it has more side effects for users of the drug. For young people whose brains are not yet fully developed today’s marijuana use poses an increased risk of addiction and damage to the areas of the brain that control memory and emotion. This educational video seeks to inform the viewer about the facts of marijuana use, inspire self examination of attitudes regarding its use, and help the viewer to consider how future goals can be compromised by marijuana use.
It offers a clear explanation of how THC works in the cannabinoid receptors of the brain and the eventual brain changes that can impair the user’s ability to experience pleasure. Psychiatric, social, legal, emotional, and intellectual consequences are presented by a narrator and an addiction psychiatrist but the more personal stories from previous users are equally powerful.
The video is accompanied by a notebook with learning objectives, a summary of the DVD, a pre/post test with answer key, student activities and fact sheets suitable for class handouts. It is suitable for junior high through young college prevention programs and health classes.