A new study from the Swiss Institute for the Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Problems indicates that teens are, on average, less likely to use marijuana and are spending less time out with friends. The study examined survey responses from over 93,000 15-year-olds in 31 European and North American countries. Researchers noted a decrease in marijuana use in most of the 31 countries, though a few countries did report increased levels of use. Countries showing the largest increases in use included England, Portugal, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Canada. Marijuana use also increased among 15-year-olds in Estonia, Lithuania, Malta, and among Russian girls.
The average number of nights spent out with friends decreased in most countries. In the United States, the rate fell slightly to two nights per week for both males and females. Significantly, researchers noted a link between more nights spent out and greater use of marijuana. The researchers hypothesize that parent disapproval of marijuana drives teens to use only when they are away from home. (Sources: www.redorbit.com)
Labels: pot, smoking
Posted By: Aspen Education Group
