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Smoking among kibbutz youth. Patterns, perceptions, and determinants
1Spitzer Department of Social Work, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel.
Summary
Thirty-seven percent of Israeli kibbutz youth smoked, with many wanting to quit. Smokers reported better peer relations but poorer family connections and more boredom.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Social Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Adolescent smoking is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the social and psychological factors associated with youth smoking is crucial for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of smoking among high-school-aged youth in an Israeli kibbutz setting.
- To explore the psychosocial correlates of smoking in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 54 high-school-aged kibbutz youth.
- Data on smoking habits, peer and parent relations, boredom, and leisure activities were collected.
- Statistical analyses, including chi-squared tests, were used to compare smokers and nonsmokers.
Main Results:
- 37% of the youth were smokers, with a substantial proportion smoking daily.
- Smokers exhibited more positive peer relations but less positive relations with parents compared to nonsmokers.
- Smokers reported higher levels of boredom with kibbutz life and less involvement in hobbies, sports, or reading.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent smoking is prevalent in this Israeli kibbutz community.
- Smoking behavior in youth is associated with specific psychosocial factors, including peer and family relationships, boredom, and leisure engagement.
- Findings suggest potential targets for smoking cessation interventions among adolescents.