Predictors of progress in smoking cessation

This study examined the ability of two specific measures of stressors associated with smoking cessation to act as predictors of progress through the stages of smoking cessation as described by Prochaska and DiClemente (1983). Specifically, a 19-item scale measuring barriers to smoking cessation and a 14-item scale measuring smoking cessation self-efficacy were completed by 127 smokers and self-quitters at three time points over a six-month period. Subjects who made progress through the stages of smoking cessation had lower barriers scores initially and had significant changes in their self-efficacy and barriers scores over the six-month period. In contrast, non-progressors had no significant changes in either their self-efficacy or barriers scores over the time period. These results suggest that the two scales may provide clinically useful data to public health nurses working with smokers.