THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS' RELATIONSHIP WITH TOBACCO

Purpose: Despite increased efforts to educate youth about the dangers of cigarette smoking, the percentage of teenagers who smoke continues to rise. This study was designed to explore the lived experiences of 14 adolescent girls who enrolled in a tobacco cessation program. Design: Phenomenology Methods: The experiences of fourteen adolescent girls were studied over a 10-week period while they were enrolled in a school-based tobacco cessation program. A combination of interviews, group discussions, and journaling were used to describe the experiences of these girls with tobacco use. Three common themes and two subthemes emerged that were supported by data. Results: Tobacco use in the lives of these girls changed over time. The importance of listening to their stories and giving meaning to the behavior is clear. Nurses must continue to explore these methods as they support clients in tobacco cessation programs. While none of the girls in this study quit smoking, the need for nursing interventions to support...