New Marijuana: Higher Potency, Greater Dangers

The potency of THC, the mind-altering chemical in marijuana, has more than doubled in the last 20 years, creating a greater risk for impairment and a far higher risk of addiction. Video presents viewers with up-to-date information on THC potency and looks at how THC affects the brain; how you become addicted; and how marijuana impacts brain chemistry, cognitive function and mental and physical health. Research experts and former teen users drive home this message: Marijuana is NOT a benign or safe drug. Stronger doses of marijuana can cause intense and disturbing reactions such as paranoia and hallucinations with permanent damage to cognitive abilities; marijuana limits your ability to learn and retain information; the stronger doses of THC cause more intense highs, putting teens at an even greater risk for car wrecks and other accidents; and marijuana use harms your brain, lungs, liver, heart, and reproductive health. © 2010 CC

Grade Level: 7–College
Running Time: 15 Minutes

Includes: video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts and pre/post tests in digital format