Addiction in the modern world is one of the phenomena that occur in the vast majority of people. That is why the study of this phenomenon’s aspects, the principles, and features of its work is essential. This essay aims to examine addiction from a neurobiological perspective while also analyzing the effect of recreational marijuana.
Addiction to something is a strictly neurobiological reaction associated with the release of the hormone dopamine. Before the start of pleasure activities, the human brain begins to produce this hormone. Thus, the brain anticipates the coming “reward” and stimulates a person to act in a certain way. However, if the goal is not achieved, there will be a sharp decline in this hormone, and there is also the possibility of disruption of some systems (Koob & Volkow, 2016). Thus, a dependence is formed, which must continuously be fed from a particular source.
According to scientists, the release of dopamine could also stimulate people to evolve and grow. Research shows that the secretion of this hormone can be accompanied by a desire to seek new information. Besides, low susceptibility to dopamine can impact life expectancy, since people remain physically active. I observe the effects described above in the form of small addictions associated mainly with gadgets. The habit of flipping through Twitter or YouTube feed helps to relax after work and get a positive charge. However, I get a similar boost of energy by actively studying new information on interest topics.
Fortunately, the activities described above are enough for me, and for me, there is no need to look for any additional dopamine sources. However, to regulate the drug situation in New York, it is proposed to allow recreational marijuana use. However, there are several possible health problems, primarily the lungs’ negative impact. Besides, this effect can be extended to children who inhale marijuana smoke against their will (Sangmo et al., 2020). The prevalence of addiction by legalizing this substance is likely to be reduced as the drug becomes more readily available and less taboo. However, the opposite situation is possible if it is too easy to obtain. However, I believe the disadvantages of this solution outweigh the positives. Even though the number of crimes will be reduced, such permission is not worth it (Dragone et al., 2019). Legalizing recreational marijuana will only lead to pharmacist-controlled addiction and an additional legal source of dopamine.
References
Dragone, D., Prarolo, G., Vanin, P., & Zanella, G. (2019). Crime and the legalization of recreational marijuana. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, 159, 488-501.
Koob, G. F., & Volkow, N. D. (2016). Neurobiology of addiction: A neurocircuitry analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(8), 760-773.
Sangmo, L., Braune, T., Liu, B., Wang, L., Zhang, L., Sosnoff, C.S., Blount, B.C., & Wilson, K.M. (2020). Secondhand marijuana exposure in a convenience sample of young children in New York City. Pediatric research, 1-8.