COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE

MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT

Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

Mahiwagang Halaman: Epekto ng Marijuana sa Pagkatao’t Kaisipan

Patrick Yves D. Fuentes

Christian Angelo T. Misola

Nathaniel Nicole P. Nachor

Charles Victor M. Vanta

PSY110: Research in Psychology 1

Mondriaan Aura College, Inc.

Jacqueline Joy A. Lising

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 COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

Table of Contents

Title Page ………………………………………………………………………………………………... 1

Table of Contents ……………………………………………………………………………………..... 2

CHAPTER

1. THE PROBLEM

Background of the Study ................................................................................................ 4

Significance of the Study ................................................................................................ 8

Theoretical/Conceptual Framework ............................................................................... 9

Research Paradigm ……….………………………………………………………………... 24

Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………………………… 24

2. METHODS

Research Design ……………………………………………………………………………..……….. 25

Population and Locale of the Study ........................................................................................... 26

Data Gathering Tool .............................................................................................................….. 27

Data Gathering Procedure ......................................................................................................... 28

Treatment of Data ………………………………………..……………………..…………………….. 29

3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A Thriving Mind, Body, and Soul …………………………………………………………………….. 34

Physical, Emotional, Psychological Effects …………………………………………………….. 34-40

Adverse Effects ………………………………………………………………………………………... 40

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The long-term Effects …………………………………………………………………………………. 43

Personality Types of Marijuana Users According to the Big Five Personality Test ……………. 45

4. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions …………………………………………….………………………………………… 54

Recommendations…...………………………………...…………………………….………….... 55

For the Future Researchers ...…………………………………………………………….. 55

For the Professionals………………………………………………………………………. 56

For Society ………………………………………………………………………………….. 56

For the Government ……………………………………………………….……………….. 57

References …………………………………………………………………………………………...... 58

Appendices

Letters …………………………………………………………………………………….. 71

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EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

Background of the Study

Marijuana, commonly known as Cannabis or pot, has been used by humans for

thousands of years. Most ancient cultures grew the plant for medicinal purposes rather than

recreational use, most likely beginning in Asia around 500 BC(Mack & Joy, 2000).

According to the American website drugabuse.org (July 2020), Marijuana is a greenish-

grey combination of the dried flowers of Cannabis sativa. Some individuals consume Marijuana

in the form of hand-rolled cigarettes known as joints, pipes, water pipes (also known as bongs),

or blunts (Marijuana rolled in cigar wraps). In addition, Marijuana may be used to make tea and

is commonly incorporated into meals (edibles) such as brownies, cookies, or candies.

Concentrated resins containing high concentrations of Marijuana's active components, such as

honey-like hash oil, waxy budder, and hard amberlike shatter, are more potent forms of

Marijuana. These resins are becoming increasingly popular among individuals who use them for

both recreational and medicinal purposes.

In the 18th century, Indica and Sativa characterized two types of Cannabis: Cannabis

sativa and Cannabis indica. The name Sativa referred to hemp plants grown in Europe and

western Eurasia for their fiber and seeds. Cannabis Indica refers to the psychoactive variety

identified in India and cultivated for its seeds, fiber, and hashish manufacturing (Staff, 2018). In

addition, cannabis ruderalis, a third strain, has recently been utilized to create Marijuana. While

each kind has different impacts, one person's experience may differ significantly from another's

(Pruett, 2021).

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Cannabis plants contain around five hundred identified chemical components known as

cannabinoids. Furthermore, when cannabinoids get consumed, they communicate with the

endocannabinoid system, a naturally existing signaling network in our brains and bodies. As a

result, doses can affect various physiological and psychological processes, including hunger,

pain, memory, mobility, immunity, inflammation, and mental well-being (Stea, 2019).

Marijuana in all forms has a mind-altering effect. In other words, they alter how the brain

functions by attaching to and activating molecules on the brain, resulting in euphoria, relaxation,

and sharper perception of things like colors, smells, and sounds. The products are unpleasant

for some people and may cause paranoia, fear, panic, or anxiety. It also includes the primary

active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 500 other compounds. Marijuana's

effects on the user do determine by the amount of THC present (Rice, 2020).

Cannabis Today Around the World

In recent years, the United States and other countries have legalized medicinal

Marijuana for recreational use. As a result, cannabis growers and producers in the United

States and Canada have taken advantage of the burgeoning cannabis business. In addition,

Uruguay became the first country to legalize the medical and recreational use of Marijuana in

2013. Jamaica became one of the first countries to decriminalize Marijuana in 2015. Jamaicans

will be allowed to possess up to two ounces of Marijuana. Colombia's marijuana laws are not as

progressive as those in Uruguay. People may use Marijuana in moderation and medicinal

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usage is permitted, but commercial use is prohibited. The Colombian government, like

Uruguay's, believes that legalizing Cannabis will reduce gang activity and drug-related abuse

(Nestor, 2019).

Despite the growing acceptance of cannabis users worldwide, Marijuana remains taboo

and illegal in most Asia, owing to its stigma. For example, Marijuana was utilized as a medicine

in Thailand for decades until 1934, when its possession, sale, and usage were deemed illegal.

However, it was not until 2018 that Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Anutin

Charnvirakul began advocating for the reintroduction of this famous plant that it received

widespread notice. Thailand became the first country in South East Asia to produce and utilize

medicinal Marijuana in 2019. Epidiolex, a cannabinoid component in CBD extract used to treat

epileptic patients, has been cleared for clinical testing in Japan. In March 2019, South Korea

legally authorized medicinal Cannabis (Maneechote, 2020).

Five different cannabis laws were pending in the Philippines, and if enacted, the prior

laws do change. It would remove cannabis from the list of banned substances and enable more

widespread medical use of cannabis than is now the case. "As the world's third-largest Catholic

nation, early adoption of Cannabis as a viable medicine may be difficult," says Kelly Beker,

executive director of the Cannabis Education Guild and founder of Cannabis Global Impact. The

Catholic Church expressly bans the recreational use of Cannabis; yet, medicinal aid has always

had some zealous support (Felepchuk, 2019).

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According to the Philippine website congress.gov.ph (2019), Rep. Antonio T. Albano's

House Bill No. 279, written by Enrico Pineda and Michael Romero, focuses on giving the right to

medicinal Cannabis a compassionate alternative method of medical treatment. In addition, he

presented House Bill 3167, which would alter Republic Act 9165 to remove Cannabis from the

list of dangerous drugs and substances. While Enrico Pineda and Michael Romero wrote House

Bill No. 1223, which authorizes hemp growing as an industrial crop, establishes the Industrial

Hemp Research Center and provides funding.

MANILA, Philippines — Rep. LRay Villafuerte of Camarines Sur has pushed for the

approval of his bill, which intends to regulate the production and sale of medicinal Marijuana in

the Philippines. The idea, on the other hand, was opposed by the Dangerous Drugs Board

(DDB). The DDB was opposed to legalizing marijuana cultivation and export. Instead, it urged

lawmakers to adopt legislation expanding the government's drug-recovery programs. Villafuerte

urged the House Health Committee to study and adopt House Bill No. 3961, which seeks to

enhance medical Cannabis to make it more accessible and affordable to Filipinos in need of this

innovative medication (Punay, 2020).

Cannabis was removed from the list of the world's most dangerous substances by the United

Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs, acknowledging its therapeutic advantages. However,

the substance is still illegal and considered harmful in the Philippines under Republic Act 9165,

commonly known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, possession of at least

500 grams of Marijuana, or 10 grams of its resin was punishable by life imprisonment

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and a fine of up to P10 million. However, if only a small amount of Marijuana is involved,

the consequences are less severe. The Act, on the other hand, states that the

government must ensure that "people with genuine medical requirements do not prohibit

from accessing to adequate amounts of approved medicines, including the use of

dangerous substances."(Santos, 2020).

Significance of the Study

This study will benefit the Department of Health as this agency works to determine the

benefits of the substance and its side effects to the user and the development and

implementation of policies relating to the concern and general welfare. This study will serve as a

guiding tool for them to know the positive and negative effects of Cannabis on consumers'

personalities and mental states.

This research is also essential for the Department of Commission, which recognizes

higher education institutions (HEIs), both public and private, that have shown the highest degree

or level of standards and areas of teaching, research, and expansion of their specific fields

courses. The Centers for Development (COD), on the other hand, are educational fields that

have significantly improved over the preceding year.

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These provide institutional leadership in all aspects of development in specific

specializations in the various regions by providing networking arrangements to help ensure the

accelerated growth of Higher Educational Institutions in their respective service areas.

Furthermore, this study's result is of the utmost importance to the researchers,

respondents, and the local community. This study will help to understand how Cannabis affects

the personality and mental state of the consumer. Finally, the report's findings will give factual

evidence to prospective researchers who can survey variables not included in this analysis.

Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

Medicinal Framework

Cannabis is a plant-based or botanical substance with a long tradition dating back to

ancient times. Data are demonstrating its use over 5,000 years ago in what is now Romania.

There is only one exact source of evidence (Δ6-tetrahydrocannabinol [Δ6-THC] in ashes) that

Cannabis does first used medicinally around 400 AD (Bridgeman & Abaizia, 2017). According to

Holland (2020).

Medical Cannabis uses Cannabis, primarily cannabinoids, as medical therapy to cure physical

and mental health ailments. It used medicinal Cannabis to relieve pain caused by numerous

disorders and illnesses, including multiple sclerosis (MS), depression, anxiety, HIV, nausea, and

vomiting associated with chemotherapy, PTSD, epilepsy, or opioid addiction. There is currently

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enough substantial evidence to conclude that when administered, Cannabis can help treat

chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, and it can relieve the 13

spasticity episodes related to multiple sclerosis. There is limited evidence that suggests

Cannabis can help with improving individuals' sleep patterns in illnesses such as sleep apnea or

fibromyalgia can negatively affect their quality of sleep (Belendiuk et al., 2015; NCSL, 2016).

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol is a substance found in the Cannabis sativa plant, commonly referred to as

marijuana or hemp. The Cannabis sativa plant contains over 80 compounds known as

cannabinoids. While the major active component in marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol

(THC), cannabidiol can be obtained from hemp, containing only trace quantities of THC.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is not intoxicating or euphoric; thus, the

patient would not experience a "high." Using it to treat inflammation and discomfort. It can also

assist with exhaustion, headaches, epilepsy, and anxiety. (Food and Drug Administration

approved Epidiolex as the first and only prescription medication that produces CBD. Using this

medication to treat some types of epilepsy.) Doctors are now attempting to fully comprehend

CBD's therapeutic merit (Holland, 2020).

CBD does claim to treat a wide range of health issues. However, the most substantial scientific

evidence is its effectiveness in treating some of the cruelest childhood epilepsy syndromes,

such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), which typically do not respond

to antiseizure medications. In numerous studies, CBD was able to reduce the number of

seizures, and, in some cases, it was able to stop them altogether. Videos of the effects of CBD

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on these children and their episodes are readily available on the Internet for viewing, and they

are pretty striking. Recently the FDA approved the first-ever cannabis-derived medicine for

these conditions, Epidiolex, which contains CBD (Grinspoon, 2020).

Cannabidiol has brain effects. The precise cause of these consequences is unknown.

Cannabidiol, on the other hand, appears to inhibit the breakdown of a molecule in the brain that

regulates pain, mood, and mental function.

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

According to the American website drugabuse.gov (July 2020), Marijuana and its

constituents' putative therapeutic benefits have been the topic of extensive investigation and

passionate controversy for decades. THC does show to provide medicinal advantages in

specific formulations. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved THC-based

medications prescribed in pill form to treat nausea in cancer chemotherapy patients and

stimulate appetite in patients with wasting syndrome due to AIDS.

According to the National Institute on Substance Addiction (NIDA), delta-9-

tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound responsible for much of the psychological effects

of Marijuana. It behaves a lot like cannabinoid chemicals made naturally by the body. THC

causes the brain cells to absorb dopamine, producing euphoria. Cannabinoid receptors

concentrate in brain regions associated with thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination, and time

perception. THC attaches to these receptors, activates them, and affects memory, happiness,

movements, thinking, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception.

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It also affects how the hippocampus processes memory, which is the brain responsible for

creating new memories. THC can produce hallucinations, alter perception, and trigger illusions.

On average, the symptoms last about two hours and kick in about ten to thirty minutes after

ingestion. Psychomotor weakness can persist after the perceived high has diminished

(Bradford, 2017).

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is used to help with the following: pain, muscle

spasticity, glaucoma, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, and anxiety and may cause temporary

side effects, such as increased heart rate, coordination problems, dry mouth, red eyes, slower

reaction times, memory loss, and anxiety (Holland, 2020). Marijuana and anxiety may go hand-

in-hand with certain people, and a person does not have a positive or calming experience while

using it. Their experience may have been quite the reverse. Many people believe that Cannabis

can cause anxiety symptoms or heighten their current anxiety, mainly if they use it in an

uncomfortable situation or attempt to hide their medications (Strum, 2020).

Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a significant role in the human body for our

survival. This mechanism is due to its ability to play a critical role in maintaining the human

body's homeostasis, which encompasses the brain, endocrine, and immune system, to name a

few. ECS is a unique system in multiple dimensions. To begin with, it is a retrograde system

functioning post- to pre-synapse, allowing it to be a "master regulator" in the body. Secondly, it

has an extensive scope of influence due to an abundance of cannabinoid receptors located

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anywhere from immune cells to neurons. Finally, cannabinoids are rapidly synthesized and

degraded. They do not stay in the body for very long in high amounts, possibly enabling

cannabinoid therapy to be a safer alternative to opioids or benzodiazepines (Sallaberry &

Astern, 2018).

Cannabis is a complex plant with major chemicals, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol

and cannabidiol, which have adverse effects. The discovery of its compounds contributed to

further discovering an essential neurotransmitter pathway called the Endocannabinoid System

(ECS). This mechanism is broadly spread in the brain and body and is responsible for various

important functions. What makes someone more vulnerable to adverse effects remains

unknown; however, some emerging vulnerabilities vary from unique genes to personality traits

(Atakan, 2012).

The Entourage Effect

When several cannabis chemicals combine, their therapeutic effects may be changed or

increased. Flavors and psychoactive capabilities may also be altered, resulting in a variety of

products with various properties. The entourage effect's group dynamics can provide emergent

characteristics that would not otherwise be present in pure THC or CBD. Many cannabis experts

feel that the entourage effect can substantially improve the medical value of THC and CBD,

either by amplifying their recognized effects or by expanding their menu of therapeutic uses

(Ratliff, 2020).

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According to Staff (2020), The entourage effect occurs when these various components

of the cannabis plant modulate the activity of naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors in our

brain and our endogenous cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids, that Act on them.

Endocannabinoids are products of dietary fatty acids, making the endocannabinoid system a

topic of interest in food-intake and metabolism studies. It is perhaps not surprising that

cannabinoid receptors influence mood and pain perception and appetite, digestion, and much

more.

The entourage effect is when smoking or vaporizing Cannabis; human bodies take in

hundreds of botanical compounds. Each one arrives with unique marks and benefits, and their

behavior may change in the presence of other compounds. The mood might vary depending on

the social environment, how consumers behave when alone, at a party with strangers, or

hanging out with their best friend. The customer's attitude and personality project shift

depending on who is in the room (Rahn, 2020).

Know Thy Dose

At the heart of all medical cannabis products lies delivering the correct dose to treat the

condition or disease in question. The next most important thing to consider is the impact on a

patient's lifestyle and their ability to continue taking their medication reliably and effectively. A

tablet containing a strong dose of THC may be convenient, but the amount may be so

substantial that it impairs driving or operating heavy machinery. However, taking much smaller

quantities over a day

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may allow a standard quality of life while still deriving the benefits of treating a condition or

disease (Faenza, 2019).

According to Nickus (2020), The ideal dosage depends on the form of cannabis product.

Some offer more reliable and correct solutions than others. For example, edibles may be broken

into smaller serving sizes, while flower potency ranges are dependent on cultivar form, growing

conditions, bioavailability, and cannabinoid makeup. Other goods give an innately more robust

experience, such as dobbing concentrates, while some have longer lifespans and durations.

Cannabis and COVID-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) does discover amid a respiratory ailment

outbreak in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The WHO labeled the pandemic a worldwide

health emergency on January 30, 2020. On March 11, 2020, the WHO marked it a worldwide

pandemic (Cennimo et al., 2021).

According to Dr. John O'Driscoll, there is an urgent need to understand the function of

pathogenesis responses in coronavirus infections. Several studies demonstrating increased

plasma levels of numerous cytokines and chemokines in patients with COVID-19 have shown

that acute inflammatory reactions and cytokine storms may play a role in critically sick

individuals. This phenomenon might lead to new illnesses such as Crohn's disease (Gou et al.,

2020).

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Cannabis and COVID-19: friends or foes?

Cannabinoids, such as CBD, have a long history of safe usage and possess many

characteristics to treat specific medical symptoms. CBD contains anti-inflammatory effects and

may be used to dilate blood vessels can help with pain and anxiety. CBD has much promise to

cure the symptoms of a virus-like COVID-19 when combined with other cannabinoids and

terpenes and the appropriate therapeutic intervention. Whole plant cannabis extracts have also

been demonstrated in animal models to reduce blood coagulation, recognizing that many of the

unfavorable systemic effects of COVID-19 appear connecting to altered coagulation; thus,

Cannabis may assist in controlling these consequences.

Researchers at the University of Nebraska and the Texas Biomedical Research Institute

suggesting more research into how cannabis-derived CBD can help relieve dangerous lung

inflammation from the novel coronavirus. The authors presented ample proof of how the anti-

inflammatory powers of Cannabis can aid in a peer-reviewed article in Brain, Behavior, and

Immunity (July 2020). The researchers demonstrate why many cannabinoids in cannabis plants

have anti-inflammatory effects. CBD is a possible candidate for the treatment of inflammation

linked to COVID-19. If effective in minimizing inflammation in COVID-19 patients, it may be a

better alternative to other anti-inflammatory solutions (Earlenbaugh, 2020).

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Physical Adverse Effects

Breathing problems. Marijuana smoke irritates the lungs, and those who use marijuana

regularly may experience the same respiratory difficulties as those who smoke tobacco. These

issues include a constant cough and phlegm, more frequent lung sickness, and an increased

risk of lung infections. So far, researchers have not discovered a link between marijuana use

and an increased risk of lung cancer.

According to the American website drugabuse.org (July 2020), Marijuana smoking

associated with extensive airway inflammation increased airway resistance and lung

hyperinflation. Those who use marijuana regularly have more significant symptoms of chronic

bronchitis than those who do not. One study discovered that persons who used marijuana had

more outpatient medical visits for respiratory issues than those who did not. Some case studies

have shown that smoking marijuana may increase susceptibility to lung infections, such as

pneumonia, in persons with immunological deficits due to THC's immune-suppressive effects.

Increased heart rate. Marijuana raises heart rate for up to 3 hours after smoking. This

impact may raise the likelihood of a heart attack. People over the age of 65 and those with

cardiac issues may be at a higher risk. THC can raise heart rate by 20-50 beats per minute by

activating CB1 receptors. This rise happens to compensate for the blood pressure drop

produced by THC. Blood pressure lowers because THC increases the diameter of blood

vessels, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood. Some reports find that the heart must

work 30% harder in the presence of high levels of THC (Kaplan, 2018).

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Exposure during Pregnancy. Large-scale, longitudinal studies of people whose

mothers smoked marijuana once or more per week, as well as experimental work on rats

exposed to cannabinoids in utero, have revealed surprisingly consistent cognitive and

behavioral correlations of prenatal exposure to this substance. Some people who tell to smoking

cannabis can have memory, cognitive, and social impairments. These anomalies emerge during

childhood and extend into adulthood. They linked to alterations in the expression of several

gene families and more general indices of brain responsiveness and plasticity. Alterations

presently mediate these disturbances to the endocannabinoid system induced by the active

chemicals in Cannabis. (Scheyer, 2019).

Psychological Framework

The word "Kaisipan" covers a much broader definition of worldly beliefs, attitudes, and

perspectives. "Kaisipang Pilipino" refers to Filipino character and spirit (Enriquez, 1986).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Mental health is a state of well-being in

which individuals realise their abilities, cope with the everyday stresses of life, work

productively, and contribute to their community (Felman, 2020).

Cannabis Benefits on Mental Health

Cannabis sativa, a species of the flowering plant genus of Cannabis, is one of the most

widely used illegal leisure drugs in western society. The two main phytocannabinoid

components of central nervous system involvement are THC, responsible for euphoric and

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mind-altering effects, and CBD, which lacks these psychoactive effects. CBD does found to

have antipsychotic, analgesic, neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,

antiarthritic, and antineoplastic properties (Mechhoulam et al. 2007), (Izzo et al. 2009), (Campos

et al. 2012), (Blessing et al. 2015).

According to the American website cas.wsu.edu (September 2019), a study by

Washington State University looks at how cannabis battles stress, anxiety, and depression by

looking at various strains and concentrations of Cannabis inhaled by patients. Research

published by the Journal of Affective Disorders showed that cannabis inhalation might reduce

the short-term levels of depression, anxiety, and stress substantially but can also reduce short-

term stress levels (Zaske, 2018).

Regardless of Cannabis's medical status, many patients with psychiatric illnesses try

marijuana and report improvements in their symptoms. Patients often use Cannabis to treat

medical issues, including multiple sclerosis spasticity, dementia, paranoia, and severe epilepsy

conditions that may not lead to conventional therapies. Patients often use Cannabis to relieve

the discomfort and anorexia associated with cancer therapy and enhance their mood and

temperament, often with their physician's approval (Fichtner, 2017).

Psychological Adverse Effects

Not everyone's experience with Marijuana is pleasant. It often can leave the consumer

anxious, afraid, or panicked. Using pot may raise the users' chances for clinical depression or

worsen the symptoms of any mental disorders they already have. Scientists are not yet sure

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exactly why. It can make the consumer paranoid or lose touch with reality in high doses, so the

user can hear or see things that are not there.

According to the World Health Organization (2016), long-term, more commonly seen

cannabis use connects with adverse psychosocial and mental health outcomes infrequent or

near-daily consumers. The review of data on the best study of these health effects include

dependency, educational outcomes, use of other illegal drugs, cognitive disability, psychiatric

illnesses (psychosis, addiction, and other disorders), and suicidality (risk, ideation, attempt, and

mortality).

Along with increased vulnerability to health problems and lower cognitive functioning,

recreational marijuana use has negatively impacted psychosocial outcomes as a

whole. Palamar et al. (2014) examined multiple self-reported psychosocial effects through the

"Monitoring the Future" survey within several annual cohorts of high school seniors in the United

States who used alcohol and Marijuana. Findings supported those mentioned above adverse

effects of impaired cognitive and psychological functioning. Additionally, marijuana use

correlates with lower academic achievement, job performance, driving ability, and social

functioning relationships.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

The DSM-5 — the newest edition of the American Psychiatric Association's manual for

diagnosing mental health and substance disorders — now includes a diagnosis of Cannabis

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(Marijuana) Use Disorder, including a group of symptoms and diagnostic criteria for addiction —

such as tolerance, withdrawal syndrome, craving and persistent or unsuccessful efforts to cut

down or control the use of this drug. Furthermore, in many Western nations, its use is so

widespread that more than half of 21-year-olds born since 1970 have reported trying the drug at

least once (Condron, 2021).

Cannabis Use Disorder. Drugabuse.gov (July 2020) stated that marijuana use disorders are

often associated with dependence—in which a person feels withdrawal symptoms when not

taking the drug. People who frequently use Marijuana report irritability, mood, sleep difficulties,

decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and various forms of physical discomfort that peak

within the first week after quitting and last up to 2 weeks. Marijuana dependence occurs when

the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug by reducing its production and sensitivity to its

endocannabinoid neurotransmitters.

The standard definition of cannabis use disorder does base on having at least two of 11

criteria, such as: taking more than was intended, spending much time using it, craving it, having

problems because of it, using it in high-risk situations, getting into trouble because of it, and

having tolerance or withdrawal from discontinuation (Grinspoon, 2020).

Cannabis Withdrawal. According to Crane (2021), withdrawal syndrome does define as the

onset of specific negative symptoms, which can be physical, emotional, and even behavioral,

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after one stops using a drug. Symptoms gradually lessen over time, or the withdrawal syndrome

can also become relatively quickly reversed by drug use.

Marijuana withdrawal (or withdrawal of Cannabis) happens when specific unpleasant

effects, both physical and psychological, occur when someone who smokes Marijuana ceases

smoking it daily. There are plenty of myths about the use of Marijuana, and one of the largest is

the idea that it is not possible to get addicted to Cannabis; that it is easy enough to quit at any

moment (Truschel, 2021).

Behavioral Framework

According to the American website apa.org (December 17, 2019), Personality

"pagkatao" refers to individual differences in characteristic patterns of thinking, feeling, and

behaving. Personality research focuses on two broad areas: Understanding human variations in

unique personality traits like social ability or irritability. The other is comprehending how the

different components of a body interact as a whole. According to one definition, "behavior can

be defined as the actions or reactions of a person in response to external or internal stimulus

situation." To understand a person's behavior, we must understand what that person will do if

something happens (Maheen, 2019).

Cannabis Impact on Social Life and the Society

Just like physical effects on the body, Marijuana affects us socially as well. Social

consequences to Marijuana use can be both positive and negative. Positive social effects are

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subtle and unnoticed (inclusivity in a group, social connectedness, or increased peer approval)

but encourage future use.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) (2013) reports that cannabis

use is becoming a normative risk-taking behavior among young people worldwide. An extensive

range of external (e.g., neighborhood) and internal (e.g., self-esteem), risk (e.g.neglectful

parenting), and protective (e.g., supportive parenting) factors does associate with adolescent

cannabis use (Chabrol et al., 2006; Fergusson, Horwood, &Swain-Campbell, 2002; Field, Mogg,

& Bradley, 2004; McGee, Williams, Poulton, & Moffitt, 2000; Olsson et al., 2003). First, cannabis

use often occurs within close friend groups (e.g., Hammersley, Jenkins, & Reid, 2001).

Therefore, cannabis-related experiences tend to be shared with others, creating a sense of

connectedness and reducing feelings of existential isolation (Pinel, Long, Landau, &

Pyszczynski, 2004).

Behavioral approaches to adolescent substance use maintain that the behavior is an

outcome of a deliberative process, including assessing one's beliefs, evaluations of conduct,

and perception of others' wants that ultimately create an intention to perform or not perform the

behavior.

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Research Paradigm

This study focuses on qualitative research, with participants presenting information

through a semi-structured interview and a Big Five Personality test. The transcripts will utilize to

interpret the data to assess the study's efficacy. The Big Five personality theory provides a

consistent framework for understanding others and strengthening interactions by illustrating why

people behave the way they do.

The figure below showed the research paradigm, which guided the study:

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

The data gathered An insight on the

Interview
from the conducted effects of
transcription and
semi-structured marijuana to the
gathering of the
interviews and the mind and
respondents' scores
Big Five personality personality of its
and results.
test. users.

Statement of the Problem

This study focuses on identifying the positive and negative effects of Marijuana on the

personality and mental state of its consumers, specifically to answer the following questions:

1. What are the psychological, emotional, and physical effects of Marijuana?

2. What are the changes encountered after the long-term use of Marijuana?

3. What are the adverse effects experienced after the long-term use of Marijuana?

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Chapter 2

Methods

This chapter discusses how the researchers obtained information concerning the positive and

negative impacts of Cannabis on users' personalities and mental states.

Research Design

The researchers used a mixed-method technique to gather data for this study. A mixed-

methods analysis is a form of research in which a researcher incorporates qualitative and

quantitative research techniques to achieve a broad and deep understanding and validation

(Schoonenboom & Johnson, 2017).

For this study's qualitative method, the researchers used semi-structured interview

questions for the participants in an online interview. The semi-structured interview is a

qualitative data collection strategy in which the researchers ask the participants a series of

predetermined but open-ended questions (Sage Research Methods, 2008).

The interviewer planned a list of questions but may not ask them all or touch on them in

any specific order instead of using them to lead the discussion. In certain situations, the

interviewer only prepared a list of general subjects to discuss. The interviewer typically analyzes

the criteria and creates a description of the potential candidate before the interview. The

researchers then build questions and dialogue starters to extract details about the interviewee's

credentials and asked follow-up questions based on the candidate's responses to provide a

more in-depth understanding.

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The Big Five Personality Test, on the other hand, was utilized by the researchers to

collect quantitative data. This definition can simplify personality to five significant traits:

openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism

(OCEAN) (Lim, 2020).

Population and Locale of the study

In this research, the researchers used the purposive sampling method for qualitative

research. The study's scope focuses on Cannabis consumers in the Philippines. The preceding

researchers intended to collect and interpret data from Cannabis users while focusing on the

participants' individual and mental state as they continuously consume Cannabis.

The researchers will interview a total of twenty (10) participants, consisting of (5) ten

males and (5) ten females, based on the following parameters; aged 21 and above; regularly

use Marijuana for at least (1) one year; willingness to share personal insights; cooperative and

collaborative for the said study.

For the researchers to obtain accurate results, the Big Five Personality Test will

distribute to (30) thirty participants, consisting of (15) fifteen males and (15) females that are

aged (21) twenty-one and above. Furthermore, the researchers will guide the participants as

they answer the test.

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Data Gathering Tool

The researchers have constructed a set of interview questions and used the Big Five

Personality Test to gather more in-depth information about the effects of Marijuana on its

consumers. The Big Five Personality Test originated from personality theories in the 1930s.

Gordon Allport, Raymond Cattell, and Hans Eysenck were the first few theorists who

studied personality factors. With the help of their theories, McCrae and Costa developed the Big

Five Personality Factors in 1987. The Big Five evaluates personality by measuring five

personality traits: openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and

neuroticism, each on a continuous scale.

Previous research employing the Big Five Inventory to analyze perfectionism found E=.80,

A=.75, C=.83, N=.85, and O=.68 to be internally consistent (Sherry, Hewitt, Flett, Lee-Baggley&

Hall, 2007). Regardless of the internal consistency values derived from prior research, the

author conducted a reliability analysis of the data to assess the internal consistency of each

construct based on the study's samples. Cronbach's alpha values for each type were E=.66,

N=.59, O=.74, A=.70, and C=.64. Furthermore, a first exploratory inquiry does utilize.

The Analysis of Moment Structures or the AMOS (version 16) to get each construct's loadings to

validate the anticipated measurement model (Kline, 2005). E=.90, N=.89, O=.93, A=.90, and

C=.87 do discover, indicating that the constructs had appropriate construct validity. When the

average variance extracted (AVE) for all five components does found to be in the

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range of 0.638 to .733, there is sufficient evidence that the model has convergent validity

(Nordin, 2012).

The researchers also created a set of questions to determine what consumers feel

before and after using Marijuana and assess what makes it the "Mahiwagang Halaman."

This data gathering tool comes with a consent form to where the respondent has

indicated their age, frequency of usage per day, and marijuana intake per day. This consent

also has signified that they are of legal age and have used their responses for educational

purposes.

Data gathering Procedure

A letter of consent in pursuit of getting authorization from the college president, Dr Edgar G.

Geniza, was prepared by the researchers to conduct the study. The researchers have

determined their respondents through purposive sampling. The researchers scheduled an

interview online via Zoom, Messenger, Skype, or Google Meet call at the respondent's most

convenient time. The researchers gave the consent form online, and the researchers also

explained the purpose of the study to the respondents.

After the said process, the researchers respectfully asked the respondent to fill in the

necessary details and proceeded to the next part.

For the first part of the data gathering procedure, the researcher asked permission if it is all right

to record the interview session. Fortunately, none of the participants declined the

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recording while conducting the interview. Moving forward, the researcher used a recorder to

gather the responses of the participant.

For the second part of the data gathering procedure, the researchers administered the

Big Five Personality Inventory through a form sent online to the respondent. Again, the

researcher supervised and observed the participant while they answered the said test. It was

also essential that the researchers were available to respond to the respondent's questions

immediately.

Treatment of Data

The information that the researchers gathered from the qualitative method was analyzed

using the Thematic Analysis method. Thematic Analysis is considered the most appropriate for

any study that seeks to discover using interpretations. It provided a systematic element to data

analysis. It allowed the researcher to associate the frequency of a theme with one of the full

content. This analysis presented accuracy and intricacy and enhanced the research's whole

meaning.

Qualitative research requires understanding and collecting diverse aspects and data. Thematic

Analysis allows understanding the potential of any issue more widely (Marks and Yardley 2004).

The researchers also used the Big Five Personality Test to assess the respondent's personality

factors by calculating their points for evaluating their extraversion, agreeableness,

conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience.

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Chapter 3

Results and Discussion

This chapter discusses data interpretation to validate assumptions and answer the

research questions. As discussed in the previous chapter, data does descriptively and

thematically presented. Therefore, this chapter also includes a summary, presentation, and

interpretation of the study's findings.

Data collection and interpretation do carry out in two stages: the qualitative

understanding based on individual interviews with cannabis users about how cannabis impacts

their lives and the quantitative data analysis based on the personality test results.

I. Named Categories

Following qualitative data gathering from semi-structured interviews, the researchers

interpret the respondents' statements by combining related experiences. Eventually, by

identifying categories, the researchers noted the physical, emotional, and psychological benefits

of cannabis, including its adverse effects on its users. The researchers also developed the idea

of comparing the respondent's old and new personalities before and after integrating cannabis

into their life.

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II. Combined Categories

After noting the defined categories on the respondents' statements, the researchers

combine all of the positive responses to conclude the cannabis benefits and build the concept of

a thriving mind, body, and soul. And then isolate them from the respondents' unpleasant

experiences to learn about the adverse consequences that cannabis can offer. Furthermore, the

researchers compare the respondents' prior and new personalities to learn about the changes.

III. Themes

Following the combined categories, and after comparing the past and new personalities of

cannabis users, the researchers concluded that cannabis enables its consumers to grow is the

benefit of its euphoria.

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The researchers used thematic analysis to interpret the qualitative data gathered. The

interpretation resulted in classifying the beneficial and adverse effects of cannabis on its users'

physical, mental, and psychological well-being. The arrangement also included comparing the

person's old and new personalities before and after consuming cannabis for a longer duration.

A Thriving Mind, Body, and Soul

According to the semi-structured interview results with cannabis users about how they felt and

how cannabis impacts their lives, ten out of ten respondents believe that cannabis helps them

grow and develop as better human beings. They all speak of the relaxed condition they achieve

after consuming cannabis, which allows them to think more broadly and boosts their creativity

and imagination. With that relaxation state, they believed that cannabis is helping them to cope

with stress and anxiety and helps them in good decision-making.

A. Physical Effects

Physically, respondents reported that cannabis relaxes them, allowing them to sleep better and

increase their appetite. They also claimed that cannabis is an effective pain reliever and an

alternative treatment for cancer and epilepsy. One female respondent also stated that

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cannabis helps her deal with her menstrual cycle and improves her sexual performance. One of

the participants mentioned:

“Noong nabalian ako ng buto, nag research ako, nag saliksik. “ano ba yung

mainam na pain reliever or pain killer na hindi pharmaceutical, organic, natural.” So syempre

yun yung lumabas kasi yung halaman daw na iyon ay mabisang pamatay kirot, pamatay sakit.

So, nung ginamit ko, ako mismo yung nag experiment; sa katawan ko mismo. Aba! Oo nga no.

Kasi nabali yung buto ko so kailangan ng therapy kailangan mo ng physical therapy ng ilang

buwan, dapat dalawang buwan yun eh. So, ginamit ko kasama yung halaman. Sa therapy, yung

dalawan buwan na gamutan naging dalawang linggo lang.” -35 years-old cannabis user

("When I broke my arm by accident, I did some research. I look for a non-pharmaceutical,

herbal, or natural pain relief or pain killer that is safe. So (cannabis) exists, and it is an effective

pain reliever or pain killer. So, when I used it, I was experimenting with my own body. Moreover,

of course, it was successful. I broke my arm and needed to go through rehab—physical therapy

for how long? It might have been two months, but I used cannabis during that period. In therapy,

what should have taken two months turned out to be just two weeks.") -35 years-old cannabis

user

Pain is the disease's warning, the sign that tells us that something is wrong with our

bodies. It is the most common reason people seek medical help, whether due to an injury or

illness. However, since the pain has multiple causes, some of which are unknown, it may be a

complex condition to handle. There are no fully reliable pain medications, and sometimes relief

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comes at the risk of painful side effects. As a result, the quest for new and improved pain

relievers, perhaps the oldest type of treatment, persists.

In the United States, medical marijuana is most commonly used to treat pain. Although

cannabis is not powerful enough to treat severe pain (such as post-surgical pain or a broken

bone), it is beneficial for chronic pain, affecting millions of Americans, particularly as they get

older. Much of the allure being because it is better than opiates (it cannot be overdosed on and

is much less addictive), because it will replace nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)

such as Advil or Aleve if patients are unable to take them due to kidney, ulcer, or GERD issues

(Grinspoon, 2018)

According to Carter (2018), A 2015 review of research on the use of marijuana and

cannabinoids for different chronic pain conditions found that some trials had promising effects.

The researchers said marijuana or cannabinoids could help treat certain forms of chronic pain,

including nerve pain. The cannabinoids in marijuana may reduce pain by altering pain

perception pathways in the brain (Cherney, 2020).

One of the participants claimed that using marijuana increased their appetite.

“Parang kunwari wala akong ganang kumain, ganyan. (Pagkatapos mag-marijuana)

Talagang makakakain ka eh.” -22 years-old cannabis user

("It seems that I am reluctant to eat, like that. (After consuming cannabis) You will eat

indeed.") -22 years-old cannabis user

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Cannabis is a popular recreational substance with various therapeutic applications, ranging from

appetite stimulation to nausea and anxiety relief. Aside from euphoria, this increase in appetite

is perhaps the most well-known result — others might call it "the munchies" (Hull, 2019).

Cannabis Sativa's capacity to stimulate eating has been known for decades, with consumers

reporting extreme cravings and intensifying food's sensory and hedonic properties. These

effects are now understood to be caused by the activities of cannabinoid molecules at particular

cannabinoid receptor sites in the brain and to illustrate the physiological function of their natural

ligands, endocannabinoids, in appetite control (Kirkham, 2009).

According to Aquino (2005), the discovery of endocannabinoids and their receptors has

caught the interest of researchers, and as a result, cannabis function in appetite enhancement

has become more specific. Cannabis can play an essential role in the leptin pathway of appetite

stimulation, and further studies in this area could contribute to obesity prevention and treatment.

Some of the respondents said that they sleep better enough to feel replenished when

under the influence of cannabis.

“And then, yun yung nagiging gamot kasi nawawala agad. Kinabukasan wala, parang

maya-maya lang wala agad. Itutulog mo lang, tapos okay ka na. Ganun." -24 years-old

cannabis user

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("Then it becomes my medication because it is efficient. It is indeed gone tomorrow, and

it is like later on, it has gone already. You fall asleep, and you will be well. That is it.") -24 years-

old cannabis user

According to Breus (2018), THC facilitates sleep by activating the CB1 receptors in the

endocannabinoid system. THC does also extensively claimed to lessen rest latency and

enabling users to sleep longer. Mainly if a sleep disturbance is not the primary complaint,

patients requiring medical permission to use cannabis often experience benefits in reducing

sleep latency (R. Tringale, C. Jensen, 2018). The relaxing effects of marijuana may help

improve sleep disorders, such as insomnia. Furthermore, improved sleep may also occur when

pain does reduce from marijuana usage (Cherney, 2020).

Furthermore, according to the Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab, high THC

strains can help consumers sleep better, and various themes can trigger sleep. Indica strains of

marijuana, for example, are the most effective at getting the user to sleep.

B. Emotional Effects

Emotionally, cannabis assists its users in being relaxed and comfortable while

appreciating what life has to offer. Cannabis, according to the respondents, because of the

feeling of connectedness, often aids in the development of empathy. The majority of the

participants have discussed how cannabis made them more expressive to help them deal with

their emotional problems. One of the participants mentioned:

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“Pero simula nung nagsmoke po ako ang gaan na po sa pakiramdam lagi. Masaya ako

na kaya ko ng i-let go yung mga problema ko na di dapat pino-problema.” -22 years-old

cannabis user

(But ever since I started smoking (cannabis), I have felt lighter. I am relieved that I can let go of

problems that do not need my focus.) -22 years-old cannabis user

This research discovered that people using cannabis to treat various psychiatric

conditions, including autism, significantly enhanced cognitive function, decreased psychological

symptoms and anxiety-related effects, and used fewer prescription drugs, such as morphine

and other mood stabilizers and antidepressants (Zaske, 2018). According to Stea (2019), the

endocannabinoid pathway plays a part in mood regulation. Some people will have an innate

understanding of this: they can tell that cannabis can help relieve their depressive symptoms.

According to stress-coping models of addiction, substances do widely used to deal with

life stress by reducing negative affect and increasing positive affect (Wills & Hirky, 1996).

According to the model, substance usage is most likely when life stress is high and adaptive

coping resources are depleted, according to the model (Wills, 1990). An abundance of research

indicating a strong association between stress and substance use supports this model

(Goeders, 2003; Goeders, 2004; Sinha, 2001; Wills, 1990).

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According to the American website drugabuse.gov (July 2020), Many people report a

warm euphoria and a feeling of calm. Other typical side effects, which can vary significantly

between individuals, include improved sensory perception (e.g., brighter colors), humor, altered

perception of time, and increased appetite. According to research, individuals use substances

for therapeutic and social purposes to improve and sustain healthy internal states, cope with

stress, and minimize or prevent aversive internal states, according to research (Goeders,

2004; Johnston & O'Malley, 1986; Sinha, 2005).

In reality, cannabis has a range of effects. If a person experiences such results, do

determine by various factors, including the product they are using, their environment, and their

emotional condition on a particular day.

A. Psychological Effects

The researchers found during the interviews that cannabis has a lot to offer in terms of

psychological effects. Respondents said that they were more creative and imaginative. The

majority of participants reported being more open-minded and experiencing expanded

awareness to the point of being more self- and spiritually aware. Having peace of mind caused

its users to undergo self-realization, which contributes to forgiveness and self-acceptance.

Relaxation also increases decision-making skills, allowing users to be more disciplined and

efficient. According to the interviews, cannabis users increased their socialization abilities and

developed a sense of belongingness, which caused them to become mentally satisfied.

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According to the findings of a 2017 survey, cannabis users both self-reported being more

imaginative and scored higher when their imagination does measure. It used a standard metric

known as the Big Five to discover that cannabis consumers were more receptive to new

experiences. This measure reflects elevated creativity and imagination characteristics, and the

research concludes that cannabis patients tend to have increased creativity. These results are a

reflection of their increased openness to experience (Hartley, 2019).

A 2009 study comparing creativity among (abstinent, previously chronic) cannabis and

MDMA users and a control group found that cannabis users had a higher percentage of "rare-

creative" responses than the control group. This study demonstrates a greater degree of original

thinking. Interestingly, MDMA users ranked themselves as more innovative than controls, but

their answers lacked corroborating proof. Cannabis patients, on the other hand, were more

likely to be imaginative, but they did not rate themselves as more creative than controls (Seed,

2021).

According to Easter (2019), Cannabis stimulates the brain to produce the neurochemical

dopamine, which provides users with the iconic calm, euphoric sensation. It also aids in

reducing inhibitions and the activation of the human "inner-editor" when composing, drawing, or

brainstorming. Cannabis users sometimes characterize their thoughts and emotions as passing

more freely, like streaming into them.

Cannabis does mention as one of the five sacred plants in the holy Hindu scriptures, the

Vedas, from 2000 to 1400 BC. Cannabis was praised for its potential to maximize

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excitement and pleasure while decreasing fear—a formula for relaxed, creative thought. In

addition, cannabis does use in ancient Buddhist ceremonies to help increase sensitivity and

concentration during meditation (Han, 2018).

Adverse Effects

According to the study's findings, excessive cannabis consumption can cause users to

sleep longer and neglect some errands. When the potency of cannabis is high, it can also cause

the user to become dizzy and move in slow motion. Combining cannabis with other substances,

such as alcohol, may cause its users to become intoxicated to the point of causing accidents,

such as car crashes. One of the participants mentioned:

“Ah..yung sasakyan namin naibangga ko dahil dun. Na hindi naman sinasadya...Siguro,

sabaw no?” 30 years-old cannabis user

("Oh, I accidentally crashed our car because of that. Maybe, because I am wasted.") -30 years-

old cannabis user

According to Hoffman (2018), those with THC in their system noticed a speeding up of

their internal, subjective time, making them feel external. Objective time went more slowly.

These results, however, vanished after they regained consciousness.

According to this study, blood pressure and cerebral blood flow are the significant variables that

lead to dizziness, and each of these may cause by high-potency marijuana. Standing up so

quickly, for example, causes changes in blood pressure and circulation. These

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circumstances may also result in an abnormal decrease in blood pressure, also known as

postural hypotension (Saunders, 2020).

THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis that binds specifically to cannabinoid

receptors, as per Kinsey. At lower doses, this is very calming. However, the higher the amount,

the more likely it will trigger an anxious response (Tucker, 2018).

The Long-term effects

To learn more about the effects cannabis can have on its users over a long consumption

period, the researchers asked the interviewed participants to describe their personalities before

consuming cannabis.

According to the findings of the study, some participants had a ton of negativity in their

past. Some of them are snobbish and have problems expressing their emotions, and some also

reported that they have difficulty controlling their anger and that they are hard to calm down.

The respondents' old-self dilemmas include being an overthinker, being scared of everything,

and experiencing panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Some are quiet and shy,

while others are hyperactive and annoying. The respondents then claimed that after they started

using cannabis, it made them feel better.

Respondents identified themselves as more proactive and disciplined, understanding

and compassionate, peaceful, and grateful. Most participants discuss how they have matured in

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their spirituality and building a sense of self-worth. Overall, the study concludes that cannabis

makes its users better human beings with a thriving mind, body, and soul.

“Naniniwala ako sobrang laking effect ng paggamit nito lalo na kung ikaw ay isang artist.

Pero sabi nga nila lahat naman daw tayo artist (laughs), Yun! Sa art, sa music (short pause).

Mas naging ma-detalye ako. Ako, mahilig akong manguha ng litrato eh.” - 24 years-old cannabis

user

("I believe that the effect is incredibly amazing. Especially when you are an artist, but as

everyone says. Everyone is an artist (Laughs); in art, music, etc., I became more detailed in

every art that I make, especially in photography.") - 24 years-old cannabis user

According to Easter (2012), Cannabis also allows the brain to produce dopamine, which

gives people the signature cool, euphoric sensation. It also aids in reducing inhibitions and the

activation of your "inner-editor" when composing, drawing, or brainstorming. Cannabis users

sometimes characterize their thoughts and emotions as passing more freely, like streaming into

them.

Earlenbaugh (2020), thus, considering the common wisdom that smoking cannabis

makes us paranoid, we found intake far more likely to be correlated with relaxation and a sense

of calm, with consumers more likely to experience peacefulness, hope, and satisfaction.

The researchers used the Big Five Personality Test to identify how marijuana users react to

different situations to assess their similarities. The big five personality traits are the best

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accepted and most commonly used model of personality in academic psychology. Robert

McCrae and Paul Costa developed the FFM (Five-factor Model), which describes the character

in five broad factors: Openness, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Extroversion, and

Neuroticism.

Personality Types of Marijuana Users According to the Big Five Personality Test

The table above explicitly shows that the thirty (30) participants' Openness to Experience

scores ranged from 15 to 36, with 15 being the lowest and 36 being the highest. In the Big Five

Personality Test, the scores resulted in 22.03, translated as high Openness. People who are

open to new experiences put themselves in positions that they can more learn than people who

live in the same setting (Schretien et al., 2010). Furthermore, a person's openness is closely

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linked to their interest in art and culture. People who have a high level of Openness love the arts

and search out rare, dynamic ways of self-expression (McClure, 2018).

Cannabis consumers showed higher Openness, lower Agreeableness and

Conscientiousness, and comparable Neuroticism and Extraversion than controls on the NEO

FFI, which is compatible with prior research of personality and cannabis usage (Flory et al.,

2002; Terracciano et al., 2008).

Cannabis usage does show to be substantially connected to enhanced creativity, audacity,

internal sensation, novelty-seeking, and impulsivity, as well as decreased autocracy (Victor,

Grossman & Eisenman, 1973).

According to Walters (2018), cannabis has assisted many artists in expanding their

creativity; but, until recently, many artists kept their cannabis consuming habits secret. However,

as cannabis legalization continues to grow across the United States and other countries such as

Canada, an increasing number of musicians are publicly embracing their cannabis use. We are

witnessing a significant trend of artists publicly using cannabis – many of them also make

cannabis-inspired art – whether they want to raise awareness for the benefits cannabis offers or

avoid hiding their cannabis habits.

In the Big Five Personality Test, Conscientiousness does accompany by a ranking

ranging from 14 to 31, resulting in a mean of 21.56, which may interpret as high

Conscientiousness. Goal-directed conduct does facilitate by a quality that may characterize

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as the capacity to restrict one's desires and behave in socially suitable ways (John & Srivastava,

1999). Conscientiousness was the strongest predictor of total work performance, and those who

scored higher on this metric looked to be more goal-oriented (Zimmerman & Chiabaru, 2014).

High scorers do organize and devoted, and they are prepared to sacrifice immediate

gratification to attain long-term success.

Conscientious individuals are responsible and goal-oriented. They do frequently

described as trustworthy, neat, and diligent. They ensure that the facts are accurate and that

their commitments do keep (Owens, 2020).

Personal strivings are long-term aspirations that influence a wide range of behavioral

decisions (Emmons, 1989). Positive affect and well-being are associated with the intrapersonal

congruence of personal strivings (Emmons & King, 1988). Conversely, individuals who pursue

contradictory personal goals report more significant negative affectivity and physical health

concerns (Emmons & King, 1988). Marijuana usage may do regard as aiding some sort of

endeavours. Struggles connected to affect regulation objectives (e.g., "to be cheerful"), for

example, are positively associated with marijuana usage (Simons, Christopher, Oliver, &

Stanage, 2006). On the other hand, interpersonal ambitions do adversely related to marijuana

usage (Simons et al., 2006). Individuals' perceived value of marijuana use in goal achievement

is related to usage rates regardless of the striving (Simons & Carey, 2003, 2006).

Being conscientious also has many advantages. Moral persons, for example, tend to

achieve better marks in school and are seen as better employees in the workplace.

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Furthermore, they frequently have strong reputations that do define by their dedication,

dependability, and productivity. According to research, strong conscientiousness may even

assist lead to increased earnings (Denissen, Bleidorn, Hennecke, et al., 2018).

The evidence linking conscientiousness to substance use is more extensive and

persuasive than for any other personality attribute. Booth-Kewley and Vickers (1994) were

among the first to demonstrate the powerful influence of conscientious persons abstaining from

harmful substance use. Since then, studies with varied populations have found a significant and

unambiguous link between conscientiousness and substance-use behaviors (Kashdan, Vetter,

& Collins, 2005; Malouff, Thorsteinsson, Rooke, & Schutte, 2007; Malouff, Thorsteinsson, &

Schutte, 2006; Terracciano, Lockenhoof, Crum, Bienvenu, & Costa, 2008). Furthermore, a

meta-analysis of 194 research found that conscientiousness-related qualities connected with

various harmful health behaviors, including cigarette use, excessive alcohol consumption, and

drug use (Bogg & Roberts, 2004).

Extraversion is the next personality dimension, on a scale of 13 to 35, with 13 being the

lowest and 35 being the greatest. The Big Five Personality Test resulted in a score of 21.5,

indicating high Extraversion. People with a high level of extroversion seek psychological

stimulation as well as opportunities to communicate with others. These folks do frequently

characterized as vibrant, lively, and upbeat. Extroverts (extroverts) are more prone to speak up

and display their personality in group situations (Cherry, 2020). Extraversion has six

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characteristics, according to McRae and Costa (2003): gregariousness, assertiveness, warmth,

activity, excitement-seeking, and pleasant emotions.

The researchers discovered that the respondents in this sample had a high level of

extraversion. Some respondents seem to have made more friends and have a greater

appreciation for human interaction. These people rely on excitement and are passionate, action-

oriented individuals. It also demonstrates that cannabis users are more likely to be outgoing and

open to new experiences, and cannabis users fared better on convergent thinking tests. Thus,

they have a greater capacity to solve issues by combining multiple ideas to produce a single

best answer (Hosie, 2017).

Extraversion and substance use have a less obvious association (Hampson & Friedman,

2008), though there is some evidence that greater levels connect with smoking and alcohol

consumption. For example, a meta-analysis of 25 research conducted between 1972 and 2001

found that greater extraversion levels were related to smoking (Munaf et al., 2007). This impact,

however, may be affected by the incidence of smoking in the nation of origin investigated. For

example, Malouff and colleagues (2006) discovered that greater levels of extraversion do link to

smoking in research conducted in Japan and Spain (where smoking rates were substantially

higher), but not in studies conducted in the United States and Canada. In addition, much

research that utilizes teen or college-aged respondents—the same ages when investigating

substances such as cigarettes, alcohol, and narcotics is most frequent (Johnston, O'Malley, &

Bachman, 2001). Furthermore, though the scientific research on

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openness is limited; there is some evidence that marijuana users do better on openness tests

(Terracciano et al., 2008).

The social status of drug-using friends may also moderate socialization effects on

adolescent marijuana use. Popular adolescents are more likely to use marijuana and other

substances and influence behavioral norms within their peer groups. As a result, teenagers may

be more vulnerable to peers with relatively high social status pro-drug influences. According to

social learning theory and empirical research, adolescents adopt high-status peers' actions as a

tactic for enhancing their social standing, showing that status inequalities between adolescents

and their friends are crucial to consider. Adolescents may be more prone to emulate the habits

of friends who are more popular than themselves instead of peers who are similar or less

popular because doing so has more positive social rewards (Adolesc, 2017).

The next factor is agreeableness, with 30 participants, with 13 being the lowest and 31

being the greatest. The average score was 19.96, suggesting a low degree of Agreeableness.

Individuals that score low on agreeability appear to be more aggressive, confrontational, and

competitive. They also have more complex relationships riddled with squabbles and breakups

(Gordon & Susman, 2020).

People with low Agreeableness exhibit little empathy and put their own needs over those

of others. Low scorers do sometimes portrayed as unfriendly, competitive, and aggressive. They

have more turbulent relationships and may conflict with others (Owens, 2020).

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According to Mark Leary, PhD (2018), a person with a high level of agreeableness has

numerous unpleasant sentiments but is still a decent person who most likely strives hard to

satisfy others. People with a high level of openness are more inclined to explore new activities,

ideas, and experiences. They are also excellent at considering and linking numerous subjects

and concepts (Cherry, 2020).

Much of the empirical evidence linking agreeableness to substance use focuses on two

underlying components: anger and violence. Hostility and aggression are associated with higher

levels of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use in childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood

(Caspi et al., 1997; Gerrard et al., 2006; Hampson, Andrews, & Barckley, 2007; Raikkonen &

Keltikangas-Jarvinen, 1991; Terracciano et al., 2008). Importantly, these findings do confirm by

meta-analysis (Malouff et al., 2007; Malouff et al., 2006). Moreover, using longitudinal study

designs, results appear robust—lower levels of childhood agreeableness predicted adulthood

smoking among females in the Hawaii Personality and Health cohort study (Hampson et al.,

2006). Furthermore, hostility among college students predicts smoking for both genders 20

years later (Siegler, Peterson, Barefoot, & Williams, 1992).

Marijuana usage does also link to harmful impacts on interpersonal relationships.

According to laboratory research, individuals under the influence of marijuana showed

systematic changes in interpersonal behavior and experience, including a pattern of

interpersonal disengagement, aggression, and reduced interpersonal abilities (Janowsky et al.,

1979; Roser et al., 2012). However, despite subjective reports of increased feeling and

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perception, participants receiving acute THC demonstrated actual declines in the frequency of

interpersonal encounters and the expression of empathic communications (Galanter et al.,

1974; Janowsky et al., 1979). The study suggests that marijuana users are unaware of its

significant impact on their interpersonal behaviors. Additional research has shown social-

emotional deficits and increases in rage or aggression among marijuana users (Platt et al.,

2010; Roser et al., 2012; Smith et al., 2013).

The last personality factor, neuroticism, had a ranking ranging from 13 to 32. The score

resulted in a mean of 19.33, and it is likewise considered low in Neuroticism. People with low

Neuroticism are highly resistant to stress and are less prone to experience unpleasant emotions

such as fear, melancholy, worry, and guilt. (Owens, 2020) Their findings on neuroticism were

insufficient. Respondents in this group with low neuroticism seemed to be more restrained,

calm, and emotionally stable. Participants have said that they emphasize coping with their

obstacles and knowing what they can and cannot achieve.

According to research published on February 29 in the journal PLOS ONE, cannabis

does, in fact, dramatically impair users' capacity to perceive, process, and sympathize with

human emotions such as happiness, sorrow, and rage. However, the findings show that the

brain may offset these effects depending on whether the feelings are perceived openly or

implicitly (Troup et al., 2016).

Neuroticism does link to drug use, with neurotic people being more likely to smoke and

smoking more cigarettes (Malouff et al., 2006; Mroczek, Spiro, & Turiano, 2009; Munaf,

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Zetteler, & Clark, 2007; Rausch, Nichinson, Lamke, & Matloff, 1990). Those with a greater level

of neuroticism are also more inclined to abuse alcohol (Grekin et al., 2006; Larkins & Sher,

2006; Malouff et al., 2007; Terracciano et al., 2008). Longitudinal data from the Hawaii

Personality and Health Cohort show that children with weaker emotional stability (high

neuroticism) drank more alcohol in middle age 40 years later (Hampson et al., 2006). The

overall domain of neuroticism and underlying components such as negative affect have a

beneficial impact on marijuana, cocaine, and heroin usage (Hopwood et al., 2007; Kashdan et

al., 2005).

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Chapter 4

Conclusion and Recommendation

Conclusions

This chapter presents the insights taken from the study's findings and the

recommendations that resulted from the research. In addition, this research looks into how

cannabis influences the personality and mental state of its users.

1. The researchers concluded that cannabis produces a state of relaxation in its users,

allowing them to deal with everyday stress and enjoy life.

2. The researchers discovered that cannabis could help people expand their awareness

and become more compassionate human beings.

3. The study claims that there is nothing wrong with consuming cannabis, and those

doing it are just people who desire to improve themselves.

4. According to the study, most cannabis users desire peace and do not want to cause

harm to others.

5. Coping with stress, pain relief, and a relaxation reward for oneself is the most

common reasons people use cannabis.

6. The findings concluded that even people who use cannabis as medicine in a country

where it is illegal are not immoral simply because they do not obey the laws.

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7. The researchers distinguished that curiosity has a considerable impact on how

people begin consuming cannabis.

8. The research showed that cannabis could boost its users' creativity, imagination, and

decision-making skills.

9. According to the study, most cannabis users who used it moderately became more

proactive and productive.

10. The study discovered that combining cannabis with other substances, such as

alcohol, would result in adverse outcomes such as getting wasted and being involved

in an accident.

Recommendations

For Future Researchers

1. Future studies will concentrate on a more diverse community to extend and improve

these results since this analysis only focused on a small population.

2. Future studies may focus on additional variables related to cannabis use, such as the

perspectives of people who do not use it.

3. Future studies may focus on potential treatments such as biological and psychological

dispositions, behaviors, beliefs, experiences, and abilities.

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For Professionals

1. The results suggest that Philippine Doctors took attention and do extensive studies

on the potential of cannabis as a medicine.

2. It does recommend that schools teach their students the facts about the cannabis

plant to debunk misconceptions about it.

3. The study suggests that Mental Health Professionals should consider cannabis by

assisting their patients in overcoming their mental health problems.

For the Society

1. The study suggests conducting seminars in each barangay about the truth and potential

benefits of cannabis and breaking the stigma associated with its users.

2. Instead of refusing to believe that cannabis can help society develop and become better,

the research recommends that people become more open-minded and curious.

3. The study advises society's people to educate themselves and share their knowledge to

free everyone from ignorance.

4. The researchers propose that society allow cannabis a chance to help overcome most

societal challenges, such as mental health issues, expensive medications, economic

crises, and deforestation.

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For the Government

1. The study recommends paying close attention to lawmakers and analysing how

cannabis can economically, socially, and physically support the country.

2. The study suggests reforming the cannabis legislation to help more from struggling

farmers to its citizens deal with the everyday stress that life has to offer.

3. Researchers encourage the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to learn more

about how cannabis benefits its users and therapeutic properties.

4. The researchers recommend that the Department of Health (DOH) consider allowing

medical marijuana as an alternative for people who can not afford medicines. However,

of course, medical marijuana will only be released to those in need if there is proof to

support the health of those using it. Furthermore, the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB)

and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) should be officially authorized.

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MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

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“AURA Psychology: The Heartbeat of Society.”

 COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

63

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

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“AURA Psychology: The Heartbeat of Society.”

 COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

64

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

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implications for the acute care setting. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2UBYFps

“AURA Psychology: The Heartbeat of Society.”

 COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

65

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

Pappa, S. Ntella, V. Giannakas, T. Giannakoulis, V.G. Papoutsi, E. Katsaounou, P.(2020).

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Reznik, S. E. Gardner, E. L. AshbyJr, C. R. (2016). Cannabidiol: a potential treatment for post-

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Young Investigators https://bit.ly/3sE3J9t

“AURA Psychology: The Heartbeat of Society.”

 COLLEGE OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
MONDRIAAN AURA COLLEGE - PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

66

EPEKTO NG MARIJUANA SA PAGKATAO’T KAISIPAN

Scheyer, A. (2019). Prenatal exposure to cannabis affects the developing brain. Retrieved from

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“AURA Psychology: The Heartbeat of Society.”