PERCEPTIONS OF SMOKING AMONG ADOLESCENT FEMALES AGED 12 – 15 YEARS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

The aim of this study is to is to explore the perceptions of female adolescents aged 12-15 years regarding smoking in Saudi Arabia. This study is inspired by awareness of the worrying prevalence of underage smoking in Saudi Arabia and the desire to find a solution as part of a wider effort to work towards a smoke free generation. This research made a deliberate decision to conduct a qualitative study whereby AF are engaged in group discussions to share their experiences and opinions on smoking behaviours of people their age. Qualitative data allow the study to produce in-depth understanding of the perceptions of health risks of smoking and how they influence the decisions and behaviours of AF. The research established that AF who smoke are aware of the health risks associated with smoking. The smoking behaviours of adolescents are influenced by a range of variables including individual factors and societal factors that include peer and family influences. The study also found that there is a correlation between the themes found in this study’s primary research and those of previous studies. The study found health promotion theories and related models could be applied to explain AF smoking behaviours and decisions. Recommendations for future practice and research are also underpinned by health promotion theories and related models including applying the Social Cognitive Model to train parents to be more aware of the impact of their smoking behaviours and their influence as role models for AF. The key recommendation for future research is for a similar study to be carried out on a wider scale in Saudi Arabia so that the research findings may be generalisable.