Subjective and behavioural evaluation of cigarette cravings

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Addiction Research
• Psychopharmacology

Background:

• Cigarette cravings are a key factor in smoking cessation.
• Understanding the reinforcing properties of smoking is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate cigarette cravings using subjective and behavioral measures.
• To examine the relationship between craving measures and the reinforcing properties of smoking.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Questionnaire on Smoking Urges (QSU) to assess subjective craving.
• Employed a progressive-ratio operant procedure to measure behavioral motivation for smoking.
• Assessed smokers after periods of abstinence (4-14 hours) and non-deprivation.

Main Results:

• Abstinence significantly increased both subjective (QSU) and behavioral measures of craving.
• In non-deprived smokers, craving measures correlated more with positive reinforcement (QSU Factor I).
• In abstinent smokers, craving measures correlated more with negative reinforcement (QSU Factor II).

Conclusions:

• The Questionnaire on Smoking Urges (QSU) and progressive-ratio operant procedures are valid measures of cigarette craving.
• Craving's relationship with reinforcement properties differs between abstinent and non-deprived smokers.
• Findings support the dual-factor model of craving, distinguishing between positive and negative reinforcement in smoking behavior.