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Factors sustaining legitimacy of smoking in Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools: a qualitative needs assessment.

Authors :
Danielsen, Dina
Vinther, Johan Lerbech
Holt, Ditte Heering
Jakobsen, Gitte Sofie
Bast, Lotus Sofie
Andersen, Susan
Source :
BMC Public Health. 3/4/2024, Vol. 24 Issue 1, p1-11. 11p.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Background: Most adult smokers started smoking in their teenage years, which increases the risk of nicotine dependence. In Denmark, there is a high prevalence of youth smoking among students in Vocational Education and Training (VET). However, reducing and preventing smoking in this group is a major challenge. This article presents a needs assessment aimed to explore factors sustaining legitimacy of smoking in VET schools and consider the measures needed to prepare VET schools' implementation of smoking reduction and prevention interventions. Methods: Participant observations were conducted in four VET classes representing three VET schools in Denmark with a duration of four days each. Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers, managers, and a student advisor, as well as four focus groups with a total of 20 students. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and the data material was analyzed following Malterud's systematic text condensation. Findings: Factors that helped sustain legitimacy of smoking in VET schools included a positive and normalized attitude towards smoking at home and among friends, an understanding of smoking as an integral and expected practice in VET professions and schools, a perceived reliance on smoking as an icebreaker in new social relations and as a pedagogical tool, and smoking as a habit and a means to deal with boredom and stress relief. Conclusions: The factors sustaining legitimacy of smoking in VET schools are reciprocal and call for smoking reduction and prevention intervention efforts which consider and address social influence, habitual behavior, and psychological needs, as well as changes at the policy level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14712458
Volume :
24
Issue :
1
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
BMC Public Health
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
175933232
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18033-8