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The quitting experience for smokers in sixth through twelfth grades
J Ershler1, H Leventhal, R Fleming
1University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Addictive Behaviors
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Most adolescent smokers attempting to quit relapse within six months. Adverse withdrawal symptoms and smoking daily before quitting predict relapse, while early quitting age and lower smoking levels improve success rates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Adolescent smoking remains a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the challenges of smoking cessation in adolescents is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the withdrawal process and factors influencing smoking cessation success in adolescents.
- To identify predictors of relapse and successful quitting among young smokers.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 622 adolescents (6th-12th graders) who attempted to quit smoking were interviewed.
- Smoking status prior to quitting and withdrawal experiences were evaluated.
- Quitting success was assessed six months after the quit attempt.
Main Results:
- Over half of regular adolescent smokers attempted to quit, but 78% relapsed within six months.
- Adverse withdrawal symptoms were linked to higher daily smoking levels before quitting.
- Early age of quitting initiation, lower pre-quitting smoking levels, no prior quitting failure, and peer smoking influenced cessation success.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent smoking intervention programs should address individual smoking and quitting histories.
- Components facilitating the quitting process, considering past experiences, are essential for improving cessation outcomes.
- Early intervention and support are critical for adolescent smoking cessation.