Wisconsin Adolescents’ Attitudes, Beliefs, Motivations, and Behaviors Surrounding E-Cigarette Use and Cessation

Abstract

Abstract: Background: E-cigarettes are the most common tobacco product used by adolescents yet no evidence-based cessation treatment for adolescents exists. Methods: Wisconsin residents, aged 13-17 (N=227), completed an online survey assessing e-cigarette use, knowledge, motivations around using and quitting, and recommendations for cessation intervention content. Results: Most of our sample never vaped (76.2%), reporting concerns with health effects and addiction as motivations preventing initiation. Amongst adolescents who used e-cigarettes, friend use was the main motivation for initiation and mental health symptoms promoted ongoing use. Motivations for quitting included health harms, cost, and addiction. Discussion: This study identified various topics that motivate and demotivate e-cigarette use amongst adolescents. This information can be incorporated into prevention and treatment strategies tailored to adolescents