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Adolescent smoking; Parental influence; Theory of Planned Behavior; Smoking behavior; Youth smoking prevention; Parental communication; Health behavior theory

Introduction

Adolescent smoking remains a significant public health concern, with long-term implications for health and well-being. Understanding the factors that contribute to smoking initiation and continuation among youth is critical for developing effective prevention strategies. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) posits that individual behavior is primarily determined by behavioral intentions, which are influenced by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control [1]. However, the existing literature has primarily focused on individual factors, often neglecting the pivotal role that parents play in shaping adolescents' attitudes and behaviors regarding smoking. Parental factors, including smoking status, attitudes towards smoking, and communication about tobacco use, are crucial in influencing adolescents' smoking behaviors. Research indicates that adolescents are more likely to smoke if their parents smoke or hold permissive attitudes toward smoking [2]. Additionally, effective communication between parents and adolescents about the risks associated with smoking can significantly mitigate the likelihood of smoking initiation.

Methodology

This study employed a mixed-methods approach to explore the influence of parental factors on adolescent smoking behavior within the framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The methodology comprised the following components: The study involved adolescents aged 12 to 18 years and their parents from diverse backgrounds [3]. A total of 300 adolescents and 300 parents were recruited from schools, community centers, and health clinics in urban and rural areas.

Data Collection: Behavioral Intentions: Questions gauged adolescents' intentions to smoke or refrain from smoking. Perceived behavioral control items evaluated the adolescents' perceived ability to resist smoking [4]. Parental factors specific questions were included to assess parental smoking status, attitudes toward smoking, and communication practices regarding tobacco use. Qualitative phase in-depth interviews were conducted with a subset of 30 adolescents and 30 parents to gain deeper insights into their perceptions and experiences related to smoking behavior and parental influence [5 ].

Data Analysis: Quantitative Data: Statistical analyses, including regression and correlation analyses, were performed using SPSS software to identify relationships between parental factors and adolescents' smoking behavior. Qualitative data thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts to identify common themes related to parental influence, communication styles, and adolescents' experiences with smoking [6,7 ]. Ethical considerations ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institutional review board. Informed consent was secured from all participants, and confidentiality was maintained throughout the study.

Discussion

The findings of this study underscore the significant influence of parental factors on adolescents' smoking behavior, consistent with the expanded Theory of Planned Behavior framework. Results indicated that adolescents with smoking parents were more likely to intend to smoke, reflecting the normalization of smoking behaviors within the family context [8]. Additionally, parents who expressed permissive attitudes towards smoking contributed to a higher likelihood of their children developing similar attitudes. The study also revealed the importance of effective communication between parents and adolescents. Open discussions about the risks of smoking were linked to lower intentions to smoke among adolescents, highlighting that when parents engage in honest conversations about smoking, they can play a pivotal role in shaping their children's attitudes and behaviors [9 ]. Furthermore, adolescents who perceived strong parental support for avoiding smoking reported higher levels of perceived behavioral control, which served as a protective factor against smoking initiation. The integration of parental factors into the TPB provides a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of adolescent smoking behavior [10]. By acknowledging the significant role of parents, public health interventions can be tailored to involve families in smoking prevention efforts, ensuring that both adolescents and their parents receive the necessary education and support.

Conclusion

This study illustrates the crucial role that parental factors play in influencing adolescents' smoking behavior within the framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior. The findings highlight that parental smoking status, attitudes, and communication significantly impact adolescents' intentions to smoke, thereby affecting their actual smoking behaviors. To reduce smoking rates among youth, it is essential for public health initiatives to adopt a family-centered approach that engages both parents and adolescents. Educational programs should focus on enhancing parental awareness of their influence on their children's smoking behaviors, providing them with tools to communicate effectively about the risks of smoking. In conclusion, by expanding the Theory of Planned Behavior to include parental influences, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of adolescent smoking behavior and offers valuable insights for developing targeted interventions.

Acknowledgement

None

Conflict of Interest

None

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