Factors Affecting Middle School Students' Smoking Behavior

중학생의 흡연행위에 영향을 주는 요인

Purpose: This study was performed to identify the relationship between stress perceived by middle school students and social support level and to investigate the factors affecting middle school students' smoking behavior. Method: The data was collected from four hundred and thirteen students of one boys' middle school and one girls' middle school. Data were analyzed by using SPSS 11.5 Win Program. Result: Smoking rate was higher in girls than boys. The factors affecting smoking behavior were drinking (OR=67.62, P<0.01), having one parent or no parents(OR=9.98, P<0.05), and higher material support(OR=4.67, P<0.05). Conclusion: This results showed that smoking prevention program is needed for girls' middle school students. To prevent smoking, teachers should help students to cope with stress from schools and their environments with careful guidance, and organized support for the student with one parent or no parents should also be established. Furthermore, guidance in student's relationships with peers is needed regarding appropriate allowance, drinking, or substance use.