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Motivation to quit using cigarettes: a review
Kevin D McCaul1, Jill R Hockemeyer, Rebecca J Johnson
1Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, 58105, USA. Kevin.mccaul@ndsu.nodak.edu
Addictive Behaviors
|May 27, 2005
Summary
Health concerns are the main reason people quit smoking. Emphasizing the negative health effects of smoking can encourage more individuals to attempt quitting.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Smoking cessation is a major public health goal.
- Understanding motivations for quitting is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the primary motivations for smoking cessation.
- To identify key drivers influencing individuals to quit using cigarettes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of over 30 data sets spanning five decades.
- Inclusion of diverse methodologies: retrospective reports, cross-sectional surveys, and prospective cessation studies.
Main Results:
- Health concern emerges as the predominant motive for attempting to quit smoking.
- Findings align with theories suggesting a desire to manage risks and negative emotions.
Conclusions:
- Reinforce the importance of highlighting adverse health consequences of smoking in cessation efforts.
- Public health strategies should continue to leverage health concerns to motivate smokers to quit.