Final answer:
Studies show that long-term marijuana use can cause problems with brain development, respiratory issues, and for pregnant women, could affect child development.
Step-by-step explanation:
When it comes to the effects of marijuana use, studies have revealed several long-term consequences. People who begin using marijuana as teenagers may encounter problems with brain development, which can affect thinking, memory, and learning capabilities. Additionally, there is the potential for coughing and breathing problems if marijuana is smoked frequently. For pregnant women, smoking marijuana could cause issues with child development during and after pregnancy. It's also important to note that marijuana's legal status is complicated, with varying laws across states which can lead to legal discrepancies, particularly since federal law still lists marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug.
Despite these potential long-term effects, the exact impact and duration of marijuana's negative effects can be subject to individual variation and use patterns. Moreover, the societal view on marijuana has shifted significantly, with a majority now in favor of legalization, viewing past characterizations and stereotypes of users as outdated and considering the disproportionate impact of marijuana laws across racial lines.