[Qualitative analysis among electronic cigarette users: practices, use, representations]

Electronic cigarettes are smokeless devices that simulate the act of tobacco smoking by spraying an ?e-liquid? and diffusing an aerosol that is inhaled by the user. Although the initial enthusiasm observed in 2012-2013 has tended to flag, electronic cigarettes are now part of the landscape of smokers seeking an alternative to smoking and abstinence. Smoking cessation professionals need to meet a growing demand from smokers and must adopt a clear position in relation to this device.

The results presented here were derived from a qualitative study conducted with the financial support of the French Directorate of Health, part of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health from September 2014 to January 2016.

The study was based on classical field-work ethnology: observations were made during events involving electronic cigarette users and 25 semi-structured interviews with diverse profiles to clarify a poorly known field. This study contributes to the observation and understanding of an emerging phenomenon, likely to induce a lasting change in our relationship to tobacco.

The study revealed a wide variety of profiles among smokers interested by electronic cigarettes. Men and women, young and old, or former smokers, adopt various attitudes when trying this device, and their patterns of use often change over the months following initiation.