Tobacco is a plant that contains the drug nicotine---a highly addictive stimulant. Despite the well-documented health risks of smoking, tobacco products such as cigarettes are still widely used in the U.S. and around the world. Its easy availability, relatively low cost and legality make tobacco one of the most popular drugs among children and teenagers. Understanding why people start smoking tobacco is important for preventing first-time use and subsequent addiction.
History
At one time, cigarettes were widely promoted in magazines, newspapers, billboards and other media outlets. According to Florida State University, photos of soldiers and movie stars smoking in tobacco ads after World War II prompted first-time use in many consumers, who aspired to be like their cultural heroes.
Today, tobacco products are largely advertised at sporting events such as tennis matches and car-racing competitions. Despite the backlash against tobacco advertising, smoking is still prevalent in many mainstream movies, video games, music videos and other influential forms of media.
Physiological Effects
The psychological effects of smoking are an important reason why people continue smoking after trying it for the first time. Tobacco contains nicotine---a stimulant that speeds heart rate and raises blood pressure, leading to feelings of increased energy and motivation. According to the Center for Substance Abuse Research, nicotine triggers the release of dopamine---the brain's "reward" chemical that reinforces behaviors by producing feelings of intense pleasure.
Time Frame
While smoking can begin at any age, most first-time use occurs in adolescence or teen years. According to Quit Smoking Hub, 80 percent of adult smokers started before 18 years of age. Over 3,000 teens try tobacco each day in the U.S., many of whom will go on to become life-long smokers due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine.
Purpose
Because most first-time use occurs in impressionable adolescents and teenagers, the desire to rebel against rules, appear more grown up and fit in with peers are common motivations to try tobacco. Peer pressure---or the persuasion by peers to engage in an activity---is another factor that contributes to first-time smoking in kids and teens.
Other possible reasons for smoking include stress relief, curiosity about the effects of tobacco and ignorance about the dangers of smoking.
Prevention/Solution
Awareness about the health consequences of smoking is the best prevention against first-time tobacco use. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 41 percent of adults with a GED smoke compared to only 5 percent of those with a graduate degree. Poverty also plays a role, with 31 percent of smokers falling below the poverty line.
Prevention programs that include parents, teachers, community leaders and the media are most effective in educating the public about the health risks of smoking. For those who already smoke, there are many options for quitting. Nicotine replacement products, hypnotherapy and prescription drugs such as varenicline can help break the addiction to nicotine.
