Smoking and peer groups: results from a longitudinal qualitative study of young people in Northern Ireland.

摘要: Previous research has indicated that young people are under considerable social pressure to take up smoking. This study therefore sought explore and better understand the mechanisms through which peer-related factors operate encourage smoke. Individual qualitative interviews were held with adolescent children aged 11-12 years (N = 102) within youth clubs based in economically deprived areas of Northern Ireland, then followed on two occasions during subsequent 3 51/39). The data implied that, although peers influence smoking uptake, this seldom happens direct persuasion, but rather as result person striving conform normative behaviour peer group they identify. findings consistent identity theory self-categorization for both nonsmoking 14-year-olds activity appears provide a means define groups, accentuate similarity groups differences between groups. In-group favouritism was expressed sharing cigarettes in-group negative stereotyping out-group members. There some evidence affiliation may be negotiated differently boys girls. These imply successful intervention needs reconsider processes