Survey of Psychological Factors Related to Transition in Different Stages of Cigarette Smoking in Adolescents

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Abstract

  Introduction : Previous studies have suggested that early smoking initiation predicts longer duration of smoking, heavier daily consumption and increased chances of nicotine dependence. The goal of the present study was to examine the effect of psychological factors on three transitions in the adolescent smoking uptake process: from never smoking to experimentation and regular smoking, and from experimentation to regular smoking.   Materials & Methods: A total of 1785 students were assessed two time, 12 months apart, with respect to stage of change. The predictor variables were measured when the students were in the 10th grade. Logistic regression was used to predict different smoking stages at grade 11.   Results: Among never smokers incidence of alcohol use and general risk taking behavior predicted experimentation and positive attitude toward smoking, general risk taking behavior, incidence of alcohol use and drug abuse predicted regular smoking in the next 12 months. Among experimenters, general risk taking behavior, smoking norm related to father (light reaction) and positive attitude toward smoking distinguished those who progressed to regular smoking by follow-up.   Conclusion: Smoking preventing should begin with adolescent even younger than age 14. This study may be supportive of interventions that target multiple behaviors.

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