Citation
Kirby, J. B. (2002). The Influence of Parental Separation on Smoking Initiation in Adolescents.
Journal of Health and Social Behavior. vol. 43 (1) pp. 56-71
Abstract
Most adult smokers start smoking when they are adolescents and, the prevalence of smoking declines less than other unhealthy behaviors as people mature. Understanding why adolescents start smoking is, therefore, key to developing effective policy aimed at lowering hte prevalence of smoking in both children and adults. In this study, I suggest that parental separation is one possible risk factor for smoking initiation. I use a nationally representative sample of American adolescents interviewed at two points in time to examine the influence of parental separation on smoking initiation. Two questions are addressed. First, is there a relationship between parental separation and the likelihood that an adolescent will initiate smoking? Second, if there is a relationship, through what factors does parental separation operate to influence the initiation of smoking in adolescents? My findings suggest that parental separation increases the likelihood that adolescents will start smoking. It does so in part by raising depressive symptoms and rebelliousness in adolescents. Despite the significance of these indirect effects, however, the bulk of the effect of parental separation on smoking intitation is direct.
URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/3090245Keyword(s)
Sexual Behavior
Reference Type
Journal Article
Journal Title
Journal of Health and Social Behavior
Author(s)
Kirby, J. B.
Year Published
2002
Volume Number
43
Issue Number
1
Pages
56-71
DOI
10.2307/3090245
Reference ID
147
