Marijuana: The Gateway Effects
Since about 1950 (but not much prior to that time) in the United States, smoking of marijuana has been linked statistically to the use of other illegal drugs, such as heroin and cocaine. Most observers have concluded that the link is sociological rather than biological, and that the use of marijuana is a marker for individuals who are more prone to seek new experiences even when these violate social norms and local laws. Further, the process of obtaining illegal marijuana increases the likelihood of contact with dealers and other individuals who have access to drugs such as HEROIN. Consequently, marijuana has been referred to as a "gateway" drug, one whose use often leads to the use of other illegal drugs. Some programs are aimed at preventing even experimentation with marijuana—not only for whatever inherent benefits this approach may have, but also in the hope that in doing so the movement to other more potentially lethal drugs will be prevented.
