SOC 224 - Midterm 1 materials Assigned Reading #3

How does Becker challenge psychological theories of marijuana use?

Psychological theories argue that pre-existing traits or motivations → marijuana use. Becker argues that motivation develops through social learning and experience. Predispositional theories cannot explain users without the supposed traits or why the same person's use changes over time. Becker also describes marijuana use as nonaddictive because it lacks withdrawal sickness and an ineradicable craving.

What was Becker attempting to do in his study?

Identify the sequence of changes in attitudes and experiences through which someone becomes willing and able to use marijuana for pleasure. Based on 50 interviews, Becker shows that marijuana use develops through a social learning process, rather than simply from pre-existing traits.

What is the “marijuana technique”?

The socially learned method of smoking marijuana properly so its effects can be experienced. Novices learn through direct instruction or observation/imitation of experienced users. Experiencing effects is necessary before marijuana can acquire meaning as something pleasurable.

According to Becker, what is required to “be high,” and what are its symptoms?

Being high requires (1) experiencing effects and (2) recognizing and connecting those effects to marijuana use. Recognition is socially learned from other users. Symptoms include hunger, laughter, rubbery legs, unusual bodily sensations, and distorted perception of time.

Does Becker believe moral considerations affect continued marijuana use?

Yes. Social disapproval can create questions such as “Is it moral?” or “Is it expedient?”, which may inhibit use. However, moral concerns do not necessarily eliminate use as a possibility as long as the user continues to define the marijuana experience as enjoyable.

Why must users maintain their ability to perceive marijuana’s effects, and how do they learn to enjoy them?

Users must distinguish being high from being normal; otherwise marijuana may seem ineffective and use may stop. Because its sensations may initially seem frightening, experienced users help redefine them as pleasurable through reassurance, normalization, emphasizing pleasurable effects, modeling positive experiences, and teaching dosage regulation.