Related Experiment Videos
Smoking and Multidimensional Well-Being: Gender and Cohort Differences in China
Aqsa Nadeem1, Li Zheng1, Xiaohe Xu2
1Department of Sociology and Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Smoking is linked to more depression and better self-rated health, but not happiness. These effects differ by gender and generation, highlighting the need for tailored tobacco control in China.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Longitudinal Studies
Background:
- Smoking behavior (SB) is a major public health issue in China.
- Limited evidence exists on the longitudinal impact of SB on multidimensional well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between smoking and well-being (depression, self-rated health, happiness).
- To assess how these associations vary by gender and birth cohort.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three waves (2018, 2020, 2022) of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS).
- Included 61,127 observations from 32,329 individuals.
- Employed growth curve modeling to analyze longitudinal data.
Main Results:
- Smoking positively correlates with depressive symptoms (β = 0.210) and self-rated health (β = 0.085).
- No significant association found between smoking and happiness.
- Gender moderates the smoking-depression link (stronger in women); cohort effects show reversed associations for depression in younger cohorts and weakening self-rated health benefits across cohorts.
Conclusions:
- The smoking-well-being relationship is influenced by gender norms and generational shifts.
- Gender-sensitive and cohort-specific tobacco control strategies are crucial.
- Particular attention should be paid to women and younger populations.
Related Concept Videos
02:12Relationship Formation
What do you think is the single most influential factor in determining with whom you become friends and whom you form romantic relationships? You might be surprised to learn that the answer is simple: the people with whom you have the most contact. This most important factor is proximity. You are more likely to be friends with people you have regular contact with. For example, there are decades of research that shows that you are more likely to become friends with people who live in your dorm,...
01:26Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Stress often leads to unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and overeating, which offer short-term relief but ultimately increase long-term health risks. These behaviors create a cycle that temporarily lowers stress levels but can result in severe long-term health consequences. Breaking these habits is essential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being. Three primary changes that support better health include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake,...
01:20Lifestyle Factors and Health
Lifestyle factors play a critical role in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Key elements, such as regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and abstinence from smoking, can significantly enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being while reducing the risk of several life-threatening conditions.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
01:30Social Relationships and Well-Being
The significance of social relationships in psychological well-being is a well-established area of inquiry within social psychology. Research consistently demonstrates that the presence of meaningful, supportive relationships enhances emotional health, while the absence or deterioration of such connections can contribute to psychological distress. Relationships serve as a foundation for emotional support, identity, and social belonging, all of which are critical to an individual’s overall...
01:30Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
Social-emotional experiences and cultural influences play significant roles in shaping gender development. During middle childhood, from ages 6 to 11, peer groups become dominant in reinforcing gender norms. Children in this age group often align with same-gender peer groups, which actively encourage behaviors that conform to traditional gender roles. For instance, boys may be discouraged from engaging in activities perceived as feminine, reinforcing culturally dictated norms about masculinity...
01:25Statistical Methods for Analyzing Epidemiological Data
Epidemiological data primarily involves information on specific populations' occurrence, distribution, and determinants of health and diseases. This data is crucial for understanding disease patterns and impacts, aiding public health decision-making and disease prevention strategies. The analysis of epidemiological data employs various statistical methods to interpret health-related data effectively. Here are some commonly used methods: