An examination of electronic nicotine delivery system use among college students using social cognitive theory. Issue 6 (24th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Greer, Anna E.; Morgan, Kerry; Samuolis, Jessica; Diaz, Gabrielle; Merighi, Julianna; Mahoney, Patrick
• Is Part Of: Journal of American college health. Volume 70:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: 1839
• Page End: 1847
• Publication Date: 2022-08-24
• Subjects: College health -- electronic nicotine delivery systems -- perceptions -- survey -- vaping; College students -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; College students -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; College students -- Mental health -- Periodicals; Universities and colleges -- Health promotion services -- Periodicals; 362.10883781980973
• DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1835922
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0744-8481

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: Using social cognitive theory as a framework, this study examined electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use, related cognitions, and context among college students. Participants: Respondents were 1229 students attending a mid-sized, northeastern university. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered and SPSS was used for analysis. Results: Almost 41% of respondents reported ENDS use in the prior month (past-month user), 26.8% reported trying ENDS but no use in the prior month (occasional user), and 32.3% reported never trying ENDS. The results highlight significant associations in past-month versus occasional use and reasons for initation, location for ENDS use, perceived norms for ENDS use, and outcome expectations for ENDS use. Conclusions: This study highlights a need for theory-based, multi-level strategies to reduce ENDS use. Interventions should increase awareness about the risks of ENDS, include peer-based interventions to foster health-promoting campus social environments, and explore the use of policies restricting campus ENDS use.