There has been much concern and debate regarding adolescent cannabis (marijuana) use and effects on cognitive behavior, including IQ (Intelligence quotient) and educational results.
This study evaluated 2235 teenagers from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children in order to assess any relationship between cumulative cannabis use and IQ at the age of 15, with educational performance at the age of 16.
It was determined that there was no difference between those who had used marijuana 50 times or more compared to those who had never used, in either IQ or educational performance.
The authors state that “Modest cannabis use in teenagers may have less cognitive impact than epidemiological surveys of older cohorts have previously suggested”. They also state there was a “robust association” between cigarette use and educational outcomes.
This is not an endorsement for adolescent cannabis use and should not be construed to be so.
