The University of Alberta researchers conducted a qualitative study of 41 Canadians and found employed people of all ages selectively lighting up marijuana as a way to relax during leisure time.

The study, published in Substance Use and Misuse, says the study participants considered themselves responsible users of the drug -- defined by moderate use in an appropriate social setting and not allowing it to cause harm to others and recommends decriminalization and eventual legalization of the drug.

"The Canadian government has never provided a valid reason for the criminalization of marijuana," one study author, Geraint Osborne, University of Alberta's Augustana Campus in Camrose, said in a statement. "This study indicates that people who use marijuana are no more a criminal threat to society than are alcohol and cigarette users."

The 25 men and 16 women from Alberta, Quebec, Ontario and Newfoundland worked in the retail and service sectors and included healthcare and social workers. They reported use of the drug ranged from daily to once or twice a year.