Recreational Marijuana users’ views on the associated risks

Abstract

This qualitative study explores recreational marijuana users’ views on the associated risks. It seeks to explore whether marijuana users are aware of the associated risks, and whether marijuana use affects their day to day lives. A qualitative research design was used in order to gather data from ten participants, who participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Findings suggest that marijuana users are aware of health risks associated to marijuana, however, they prefer to ignore them as they believe that marijuana risks are minimal compared to risks which they are exposed to on a daily basis such as a mass-produced food and pollution. Participants also mentioned that they are aware that there are some studies stating that marijuana may have repercussions on one’s health, however, they believe that certain information may be misleading or biased. Marijuana does not affect their daily lives as they believe that they have it under control, and take marijuana in moderation. They all strive to succeed throughout their education and also their professional careers. Participants consider their use of marijuana to be normal and do not feel that they are doing anything different from the rest of society. The reason behind this is because most of the friends who they spend the majority of their time with make use of marijuana; therefore, it becomes normal then as it is accepted and done by most people of their social circle.