The marijuana debate in regards to adult use is becoming a more and more clear-cut issue. Already Colorado and Washington have legalized the plant, seemingly saying that marijuana is no more harmful than alcohol or tobacco. As an adult, you should have the right too choose what you take into your system, even if the affects are not always positive.

Adults and minors are segmented in the marijuana debate, due to the development of the human brain. While researchers estimate that the human brain reaches its full development stage somewhere in the mid-20's; so the under-18 category is at a higher risk.  

"It needs to be emphasized that regular cannabis use, which we consider once a week, is not safe and may result in addiction and neurocognitive damage, especially in youth," said Krista Lisdahl, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. 

The American Psychological Association (APA) held their annual convention last week, in which marijuana usage in teenagers was a hot topic. According to Lisdahl's presentation, 6.5 percent of high school seniors smoke marijuana on a daily basis. This is compared to 1993 levels, which were 2.4 percent.

There are a slew of potential side effects that can damage or otherwise impair teenage mental faculties, but it is difficult to pin point specifics. When discussing drugs, there are two components to focus on: the physical and mental aspects. The physical addiction piece is not seen as a major trait of marijuana in comparison to the likes of alcohol or heroin withdrawals. Marijuana is assumed to limit or hamper ambition in minors along with decreased motor skills.

Overall it is unclear what the American Psychological Association wants to do with their research on teenage marijuana use. Since the act is already illegal, meaning the teen is engaging in illegal behavior already by smoking it, it's counter-intuitive to think that new research will sway their behavior.

In any case, the marijuana debate will continue to be a hot topic as more states are slated to pass legalization. Marijuana will likely be in the same category as tobacco, in that youths are educated about its risks, while adults are allowed to make their own decisions.