Psychosocial consequences of cannabis regulation: a qualitative study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21134/haaj.v22i2.621Keywords:
Regulation/legalization of cannabis, recreational use, qualitative research, public health, psychosocial consequencesAbstract
Background: Due to different legalizations of therapeutic and recreational use of cannabis, the presence of this topic in scientific, political and social contexts has intensified. When considering a regulation of cannabis use for recreational purposes, it is vitally important to consider what its psychosocial consequences may be, especially because it is a matter of public health. The study of these psychosocial consequences is the main objective of this research. Method: Qualitative methodology was used: a bibliographic review, interviews with experts in all areas related to the debate, with a Research-Action design. Results: The Regulation has to be focused from public health and human rights, not from individual liberties or socioeconomic positions. Consequences for general population are integrated in health area, especially mental health and accidents, work and traffic ones. Main (not only) risk group in young population, especially for combination of school dropout, problems in access to work area and decrease in perceived risk vulnerability. The response to a regulation has to be structured and proportional, with actions form prevention and early intervention. Conclusions: the serious psychological impact on the mental health of cannabis users and possible increase in traffic accidents must be considered for possible regulation. Adolescents are identified as the main (not the only) risk group, and the problem of ineffectiveness of current prevention and treatment programs for high-risk cannabis users is identified.
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