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Smoking patterns and cessation motivations during adolescence
D N Dozois1, J A Farrow, A Miser
1Division of Adolescent Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, USA.
The International Journal of the Addictions
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Most adolescent smokers in detention have tried quitting, often for health reasons. However, sustained smoking cessation is challenging, with nicotine cravings being a significant barrier.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Effective adolescent smoking prevention is known, yet research on cessation is limited.
- Adolescent smoking remains a significant public health concern, necessitating effective cessation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate smoking patterns, cessation attempts, motivations, and withdrawal symptoms in adolescents within a detention setting.
- To identify challenges and facilitators for smoking cessation among detained youth.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 77 adolescents (mean age 15.8 years) in a Seattle youth detention center.
- Data collected included smoking habits, previous quit attempts, reasons for quitting, and nicotine withdrawal experiences.
Main Results:
- 72% of adolescent smokers reported prior cessation attempts, with health concerns as the primary motivation.
- Short-term abstinence (less than 3 days) was achieved by 35.9%, while only 30.8% abstained for over 1 month.
- Nicotine craving was the most frequently reported and severe withdrawal symptom.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents in detention centers demonstrate a desire to quit smoking but face significant challenges in sustained cessation.
- Nicotine withdrawal, particularly craving, is a major obstacle requiring targeted interventions for this population.