<p> Currently, 27 states have medicalized marijuana, and eight states plus the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for recreational use. The media have played a central role in these campaigns by having a robust effect on perceptions of marijuana policy. The media have also been used throughout history to influence individual behavior, particularly surrounding marijuana and other drug use.</p><p> To analyze the media’s effects on voting on marijuana initiatives and shifts in perceptions of marijuana policy, risk, harm, and use, this study anonymously surveyed 664 undergraduates. The students were selected using multistage cluster sampling of all departments and courses at a diverse, large university. Findings indicate that the media do not have a significant impact on beliefs and behaviors when peers and social bonds are control variables. Implications include utilizing the media to target peers and parents, an interdisciplinary approach, and utilizing social media for drug reform and prevention efforts. </p>
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:PROQUEST/oai:pqdtoai.proquest.com:10263467 |
| Date | 16 May 2017 |
| Creators | Cunningham, Paige N. |
| Publisher | California State University, Long Beach |
| Source Sets | ProQuest.com |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | thesis |
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