How to Convince Your Parents Cannabis Use Isnt Bad

If youre a young adult living in a state where cannabis is legal such as Washington DC or Rhode Island and youve decided to use it responsibly its understandable to want your parents to be on board with your choice.

However many parents still hold outdated and inaccurate views about cannabis products based on decades of misinformation and stigma. Convincing them that weed isnt bad can be a challenge but with the right approach and information its possible to have a productive conversation and help them see cannabis plants in a new light especially in states that have legalized recreational marijuana or legalized medical marijuana.

Chris Dorcey

Inheal Editor

Post date

April 24, 2024

Time to read

9 mins 24 secs

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Approach the conversation calmly and respectfully
Be prepared with accurate information and credible sources about marijuana laws and state laws
Emphasize your responsible use and the legal status of cannabis in your state whether it remains illegal or is legal for medical or recreational use
Listen to their concerns and address them directly
Offer to provide more information and continue the dialogue

Understanding Your Parents Perspective

Before diving into the conversation its important to understand where your parents are coming from. Their views on cannabis have likely been shaped by a lifetime of exposure to anti-drug messaging and scare tactics particularly regarding the amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in marijuana products.

Many of them grew up during a time when cannabis was heavily criminalized and associated with negative stereotypes and outcomes. Even if theyve seen attitudes shifting in recent years as more states legalize medical marijuana and recreational marijuana its hard to shake off deeply ingrained beliefs.

Its also important to remember that as your parents their primary concern is likely your health and well-being. They may worry that cannabis use particularly products with high levels of THC could negatively impact your brain development lead to addiction or serve as a gateway to harder drugs. While these concerns are understandable theyre often based on outdated or inaccurate information about marijuana laws and the effects of CBD oil and other cannabis products.

Preparing for the Conversation

To have a productive conversation with your parents about cannabis its essential to come prepared with accurate information and credible sources. Take some time to educate yourself on the latest scientific research on cannabis plants and products including their potential benefits and risks as well as the specific marijuana laws in your state. Look for reputable sources such as peer-reviewed studies and reports from respected medical organizations. Its also a good idea to reflect on your own cannabis use and be prepared to discuss it honestly and openly.

Consider why you choose to use cannabis products how you use them responsibly and what benefits you feel they provide. Be ready to address any potential downsides or challenges youve encountered and how youve managed them while staying within the legal limits for possession in your state (for example up to 15 grams in Rhode Island for those who can legally possess marijuana).

Having the Conversation

When youre ready to talk to your parents about cannabis choose a time and place where you can have a calm and uninterrupted conversation. Avoid bringing it up when emotions are running high or when either of you is under the influence of substances.

Start by expressing your respect for their opinions and concerns and emphasize that you want to have an open and honest dialogue. Let them know that youve done your research on marijuana laws and have some information to share but also be open to hearing their perspective.

Share what youve learned about the current state of cannabis research and policy particularly in states that have legalized medical marijuana or recreational marijuana. Emphasize that while cannabis isnt without risks its far less harmful than many legal substances such as alcohol and tobacco and that in states where cannabis is legal its carefully regulated and controlled to ensure safety and quality.

Be honest about your own cannabis use but focus on how you use it responsibly and within the limits of state laws. Explain how you avoid driving under the influence how you keep your use moderate and how you prioritize your health and well-being. If youve experienced any positive effects from cannabis products such as relief from anxiety or chronic pain share those as well but avoid making any medical claims.

Listen carefully to your parents concerns and address them directly. If theyre worried about the amount of THC in cannabis products explain that there are many options available with varying levels of THC and CBD and that you choose products that are appropriate for your needs and preferences. If theyre concerned about the legal status of cannabis provide accurate information about marijuana laws in your state and emphasize that you only use cannabis products in accordance with those laws.

Throughout the conversation try to remain calm and avoid getting defensive or argumentative. If the discussion starts to get heated suggest taking a break and coming back to it later. Remember that changing deeply held beliefs takes time and you may not convince them in a single conversation.

Continuing the Dialogue

After your initial conversation with your parents its important to keep the dialogue open. Offer to provide them with more information and resources if theyre interested such as articles about the latest research on cannabis plants and products or updates on marijuana laws in your state or at the federal level. Be open to their ongoing questions and concerns and continue to share your own experiences and perspectives. Over time as they see you using cannabis responsibly and legally they may start to come around.

Its also important to remember that even if your parents dont fully embrace your cannabis use you can still maintain a positive relationship with them. Agree to disagree and focus on the many other things you have in common.

Final thoughts

Convincing your parents that weed isnt bad can be a challenging but worthwhile endeavor. By approaching the conversation with respect honesty and accurate information about cannabis plants products and marijuana laws you can help them see cannabis in a new light.

Remember to listen to their concerns address them directly and emphasize your responsible and legal use. Over time and with ongoing dialogue you may be able to change their perspective and enjoy a more open and understanding relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my parents are totally opposed to cannabis use?

If your parents are strongly against cannabis use it may take more time and patience to change their minds. Start by sharing accurate information and resources about cannabis products and marijuana laws and be open to ongoing dialogue.

Ultimately you may need to agree to disagree while still maintaining a positive relationship.

Is it legal to use cannabis if youre under 21 in a legal state?

No. Even in states where cannabis is legal for adult use you must be 21 or older to purchase or consume it. Underage use remains illegal under state laws and can come with serious consequences.

What if I dont want to tell my parents that I use cannabis?

Its understandable to want to keep your cannabis use private especially if you worry about your parents reaction. However keeping secrets can strain your relationship and if your parents find out on their own they may feel betrayed.

Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of being open and honest about your use of cannabis products within the limits of state laws.

Disclaimer

The statements on this blog are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease. FDA has not evaluated statements contained within the blog. Information on this website or in any materials or communications from Inheal is for educational/informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions, correct dosage or for guidance about a specific medical condition.

by Chris Dorcey

A connoisseur of cannabis creativity and true contemplation with more than 20 years of experience, Chris extracts deep thoughts from getting lightly baked and shares his wandering mind. He blends cuisine and cannabis culture into nutritious, delicious recipes and insights for other hemp lovers.