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Marijuana and the Teenage Brain 2013

Highly Recommended

Distributed by Human Relations Media, 41 Kensico Drive, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549; 800-431-2050
Produced by Peter Cochran
Directed by Peter Cochran
DVD, color, 23 min., DVD includes a digital Teacher’s Resource Book



Jr. High - General Adult
Adolescents, Biology, Brain, Drugs, Marijuana, Mental Health, Substance Abuse

Date Entered: 02/14/2014

Reviewed by Deidra N. Herring, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

The DVD is a research-based resource for teachers and students explaining the chemical changes that occur in the brain when teens become addicted to smoking marijuana at a young age. The video presents 5 major questions at the beginning and talks about the latest findings. The format is excellent providing viewers with background information on how the brain functions, its components, and the chemical changes that can occur.

Much more is uncovered when professional clinicians and researchers discuss results from brain studies linking IQ decline with long-term use of THC. In addition, the film is packed with information about the association between substance abuse and mental illness such as psychosis and depression. While the video provides these facts, younger viewers can appreciate the teen perspectives offered in the movie.

Marijuana and the Teenage Brain is highly recommended for teachers and students covering related topics in the classroom. A nineteen page digital Teacher’s Resource Book complements the DVD to include lesson plans organized to cover the National Health Education Standards and Performance Indicators based on grade level. Pre/Post Tests are also included.

Human Relations Media provides a range of quality educational videos that can be found on their web site.