Cognition

    Whereas the research on marijuana use has yet to address 

long-term effects, it is often believed that long-term use can lead to a large deficit in cognitive functioning. Users report having acute difficulty remembering things, learning new things, and sustaining attention/concentration. Other cognitive processes that may be affected include decision-making, risk-taking, impulsivity, and inhibition. The duration, frequency, and dosage when using marijuana can all impact the extent of cognitive impairment and the length of impairment.   

It is known that cannabis use can impact cognitive functioning, but the age an individual begins using can have an impact as well. A review of 48 studies regarding marijuana use and educational outcomes revealed that smoking adolescents had a reduced chance of graduating. Individual differences outside of marijuana use can come into play; however, one study considered background and ensured the participants came from similar education levels and income brackets. Results from this study suggested that adolescents who engaged in heavier marijuana use were less likely to complete college, and most had a yearly income of $30,000 or less. Again, individual differences can have a large impact on the side effects of marijuana use, but cognitive deficits do occur with use and may worsen the younger the user is.