Effects of cannabis decriminalization in the Australian capital territory on university students' patterns of use

Author(s): Aitken, C. K.

Journal/Book: J Drug Issues. 1997; 27: Florida State Univ, School, Criminology Criminal Justice, PO Box 66696, Tallahassee, FL 32313-6696. J Drug Issues Inc. 785-793.

Abstract: Prohibition has been the fundamental tenet of drug policy in most countries throughout much of this century, despite mounting evidence of its ineffectiveness in reducing production, trafficking and consumption. Proposals for policies that favor relaxation of criminal penalties for drug use are frequently defeated with the argument that decriminalization will lead to increased use. However, this effect has not been observed in the few countries and states which have decriminalized cannabis. The most recent instance of cannabis decriminalization occurred in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) in 1992. To evaluate the effect of decriminalization on cannabis use in the ACT, a sample of students at the Australian National University were surveyed to determine their patterns of use before and since enactment of the legislation. A control group was recruited from students at the University of Melbourne. Patterns of cannabis use were found to be very stable over time, with no significant changes discernible for either sample.

Note: Article McGeorge J, Convenience Advertising Australing Pty Ltd, Level 1, 409 King St, W Melbourne 3003, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): PERCEPTUAL DETERRENCE; SOCIAL-CONTROL

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