New Study Says That People Who Smoke Weed Are Not Lazier Than Those Who Don’t
This peer-reviewed study examined 274 people who used cannabis regularly and compared them to those who did not use cannabis at the same age and gender.
So much for the stereotypical lazy, bumbling stoners like Seth Rogen’s Dale Denton character in Pineapple Express.
Cannabis enthusiasts and stoners worldwide are rejoicing in sweet, juicy vindication.Â
A peer-reviewed study recently published in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology suggests that people who use cannabis are less likely to be unmotivated or apathetic than their counterparts who choose to abstain from the devil’s lettuce.
The study was led by scientists from King’s College London, University College London, and the University of Cambridge. It surveyed 274 people who used cannabis regularly and compared them to non-users of cannabis.
Busting The Stoner Myth
Participants were asked to rate statements and answer questions to determine their level of apathy or anhedonia– a decreased ability to experience pleasure and reward.
Participants were asked questions such as whether they would be willing to see a project through to completion or how interested they were in learning new skills.
Cannabis users scored slightly less than non-users for anhedonia, suggesting they are more satisfied with themselves. The study also found no significant differences in apathy scores.
Additionally, researchers also found no association between cannabis use frequency and anhedonia or apathy in regular users.
“We were surprised to see that there was really very little difference between cannabis users and non-users when it came to lack of motivation or lack of enjoyment, even among those who used cannabis every day,” stated Cambridge Ph.D. Candidate Martine Skumlien.
Skumlien continues, “This is contrary to the stereotypical portrayal we see on TV and in movies.”
However, Will Lawn, a Kings College researcher, said that more long-term research on marijuana use and motivation is necessary to confirm the study’s findings.
Is the stoner reputation being redeemed? Is the stigma finally fading around people who choose to self-medicate with cannabis?
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
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