Analysing the public perception against statements of professionals on Cannabis legalisation in the Maltese context

Abstract

Discourse on cannabis legalisation for personal use within the Maltese context has been ongoing for many years, and several local professionals, working in the field of law enforcement and drug rehabilitation, have voiced their opinion on the topic. This study aims to analyse the perceptions of the study participants on cannabis legalisation in terms of concepts elicited from public statements made by local professionals. This study employed a quantitative approach and the data was compiled through the administration of a questionnaire, which was easily accessible for those individuals with a Facebook account. The findings showed that most respondents agree with cannabis legalisation. While males were more likely to support legalisation, they were also more likely, than female respondents, to report previous cannabis use. Notwithstanding that participants mostly expected cannabis use to increase as a result of legalisation, its current legal status was not perceived as a deterrent. Additionally, the majority of participants were found to perceive cannabis as less harmful than substances that are already legalised, such as alcohol and tobacco. The results also showed that while most participants acknowledged the possible impact of cannabis on one’s social life, the majority of respondents demonstrate a lack of awareness in terms of risks that link physical and mental health problems with cannabis use.