The consequence of marijuana legalization in adolescents is a topic of concern in the public. Even though there is no recorded death due to excessive consumption of marijuana, society fears its legalization increases youth intake, health problem, and violence. In the article “Teens will suffer if R.I. decriminalizes marijuana”, the author Brendan P. Doherty argues that use of marijuana results in effect to brain, violence, and public safety (par 1). Doherty is a law prosecution veteran and a criminal investigator (par 4). He is experienced in operating drug arrests and interviewing teens, adults, and juveniles indulged in marijuana (par 4). He is a 28-year-old adult; fearing decriminalization will encourage young people to smoke pot, which impairs their health. Therefore, he writes the article to make teachers, counselors, parents, and any person concerned about young adults of the country aware of the effects of decriminalization (par 2). Furthermore, he …show more content…
The Providence Journal was established in 1829 and has been has been printing more than 194,000 copies on a daily basis and serving the residents of Rhode Island. Thus, it is established as one of the prominent news provider in the country. This shows that the newspaper is well respected and credible. Furthermore, the author of the article Brendan P. Doherty is a superintendent of Rhode Island State Police. Therefore, he interacts with people involved in marijuana, has heard their stories, and is a good authority to talk on the subject. In addition, throughout the report, Doherty uses appropriate language and is consistent and impartial towards one opinion. He acknowledges all points of view in a logical and clear manner, which makes the story scholarly and credible. He cites National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) as an evidence for a claim he makes which also further shows that the article is indeed