Factors Related to Cigarette Smoking Initiation and Use among College Students
Author Information
Author(s): Von Ah Diane, Ebert Sheryl, Ngamvitroj Anchalee, Park Najin, Kang Duck-Hee
Primary Institution: Indiana University, School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Hypothesis
The study examines the impact of personality, cognitive, coping resources, and demographic factors on cigarette smoking behaviors among college students.
Conclusion
Self-efficacy is the most significant predictor of smoking behaviors among college students, with higher self-efficacy linked to lower smoking initiation and frequency.
Supporting Evidence
- 55% of participants reported having ever tried smoking.
- 42% of those who tried smoking were current smokers.
- 77% of students who smoked a whole cigarette did so at age 16 or younger.
- Lower self-efficacy was linked to higher frequency and quantity of smoking.
- Conscientiousness was a significant predictor of smoking initiation.
Takeaway
This study found that college students who believe in their ability to resist smoking are less likely to start smoking and smoke less often.
Methodology
Cross-sectional study using self-report questionnaires to assess smoking behaviors and related factors.
Potential Biases
Self-reporting may lead to inaccuracies in reporting smoking behaviors.
Limitations
Data were collected using self-report measures only once, limiting the ability to establish causal relationships.
Participant Demographics
161 undergraduate students, aged 18-26, predominantly female (73%), with 44% White and 56% Non-white.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001 for conscientiousness, 0.012 for self-efficacy in smoking initiation.
Confidence Interval
95% CI for conscientiousness: 0.802, 0.946; for self-efficacy: 0.532, 0.927.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website