Stress and coping behaviors among smokers

Positive association has been seen between stress and smoking behavior. This relationship has not been explored in relation to one's coping behavior and desire to quit smoking. The present study examined stress, coping and readiness to change among smokers. 50 smokers were selected using a cross sectional design. Assessment Proforma, Fagerstrom test for Nicotine Dependency, General Health Questionnaire, Perceived Stress Scale, Coping Checklist and Readiness to Change Questionnaire were administered on them. Stress was related to smoking behavior as well as initiation and maintenance of smoking. Individuals in the early adulthood stage were using maladaptive coping strategies. Perceived stress was higher among the middle age group. Stress and maladaptive coping behaviors were found to be associated with initiation and maintenance of smoking. It has implications for psychosocial interventions in tobacco cessation.