Purpose The recent legalization of non-medical marijuana use in several US states has unknown implications for those who are actively parenting. This study examined parents’ reactions to marijuana legalization and changes in attitudes and behaviors over time. Methods Data were from a gender-balanced, ethnically diverse sample of 395 parents in Washington State who were participating in the longitudinal Seattle Social Development Project. Participants were interviewed 15 times between 1985 (age 10) and 2014 (age 39). Adult non-medical marijuana use was legalized in Washington in 2012 and retail outlets opened in 2014. Results Results showed (a) one third of parents incorrectly believed the legal age of non-medical marijuana use to be 18; (b) significant increase in approval of adult marijuana use and decrease in perceived harm of regular use; (c) wide opposition to teen use and use around one’s children; and (d) substantial increases in frequency of use and marijuana use disorder among parents who used. Conclusions Despite increased acceptance and frequency of adult use, parents remain widely opposed to teen use but need facts and strategies for talking with their children about marijuana.

No abstract

PurposeThis paper seeks to discuss advances in the prevention of crime and anti‐social behaviours that have occurred in the USA in the last decade.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines significant achievements in the identification of risk and protective factors related to anti‐social behaviours, the design and evaluation of preventive interventions and strategies intended to increase the successful and widespread implementation of these practices. The Evidence2Success model is described as an example of how scientific advances can be utilised by communities to improve youth outcomes at little added cost to taxpayers.FindingsIn a very short time span, much progress has been made in prevention sciences. Spurred in part by federal initiatives and funding opportunities, increasing numbers of preventive interventions have been developed and demonstrated as effective, and methods for disseminating these practices show promise.Originality/valueThese successes can be utilised by other countries to advance prevention science internationally.

No abstract