Experts say that decriminalizing marijuana leads to misconceptions about the drug

According to the 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, nearly 39 percent of teens between grades 9 and 12 have used marijuana at least once during their lifetime. Furthermore, experts told the Boston Herald that the decriminalization of marijuana has led teens to believe the drug is less deviant.

They added that changing the punishment for possession of the drug from jail time and a criminal record to a $100 fine does not present enough punishment for those who use marijuana. Teens see marijuana as a social activity that makes them less aggressive and breaks up the boredom.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that prolonged use of marijuana can contribute to the development of cancer, difficulties with lung function and can damage the immune system. Experts told the news source that teens who try the drug are more at risk to start using cocaine and heroin.

Programs for troubled youth can help teens who exhibit risky behaviors by offering education and recreational activities designed for the development of healthy life choices.