The Effects Of Drug Use On Memory And Neuropsychological...

At any given point, the average individual experiences a temporary lapse in memory resulting in the inability to recall details of information (i.e. forgetting). The working memory, or short-term memory, is often more sharp in recalling the details of an experience whereas long-term memory is usually a little less detailed due to decay, displacement, or interference (Memory Psychology, 2016, p.1). The functional use of memory gives people the ability to carry out tasks and recall important pieces of information, but it can be influenced to change from optimal performance in the event of unfortunate circumstances such as a head injury, a stroke, or an illness. Studies have shown that the use and abuse of drugs can also influence the dysfunction of mental processes, which has led to the study of how drug use impacts memory and neuropsychological function. In 2011, a study was conducted to determine how drugs can influence memory capabilities in university students. This study focu sed on the impact the use of a few types of drugs have on prospective memory from the evaluation of answers from self-reporting questionnaires and the scoring from two objective tasks, providing the necessary empirical evidence that shows how substance use influences changes in cognitive function and memory. Extended periods of substance use has been linked with the decrease in optimal functioning of retrospective memory (material already learned), but less is known about the influence polyShow MoreRelatedCannabis Use For Teenage Years1659 Words   |  7 PagesMeier (2012) cannabis use in teenage years can lead to cognitive decline. Heavy cannabis use at a younger age can lower a person’s IQ and as an adult this decline is not seen. Cannabis use can be associated or connected to many things involving cognitive function. One relationship that can be correlated is the relationship among cannabis use and neuropsychological impairment for teenagers. 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