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Identity processes in smokers who want to quit smoking: A longitudinal interpretative phenomenological analysis
The importance of identity in smoking cessation is increasingly becoming recognized
by researchers. This study is the first in-depth longitudinal qualitative investigation
of identity change processes among smokers who intend to quit. Participants’
accounts of smoking, attempts to quit and sense of identity were explored over time
to examine identity continuity and change. Ten smokers with a quit intention were
interviewed three times, approximately 1 month apart, and approached for follow-up
2 years later. Data from 30 in-depth interviews were analyzed using the interpretative
phenomenological analysis approach. Two themes of identity change processes are
presented: “Identity transition makes it easier to quit” and “Identity conflict resolution
is needed when quitting is unsuccessful or not attempted.” Identity transition toward
the...
Show moreThe importance of identity in smoking cessation is increasingly becoming recognized
by researchers. This study is the first in-depth longitudinal qualitative investigation
of identity change processes among smokers who intend to quit. Participants’
accounts of smoking, attempts to quit and sense of identity were explored over time
to examine identity continuity and change. Ten smokers with a quit intention were
interviewed three times, approximately 1 month apart, and approached for follow-up
2 years later. Data from 30 in-depth interviews were analyzed using the interpretative
phenomenological analysis approach. Two themes of identity change processes are
presented: “Identity transition makes it easier to quit” and “Identity conflict resolution
is needed when quitting is unsuccessful or not attempted.” Identity transition toward
the identity of nonsmoker appeared to be facilitated by permeable identity boundaries,
a continuous sense of identity, and a sense of mastery of quitting. Conflicted smoker
identities were observed among participants who continued to smoke, along with barriers that appeared to prevent them from identifying with nonsmoking. Among these
participants psychological (e.g. using downward comparisons with worse-off smokers)
and behavioral strategies (e.g. hiding smoking from others) were seen that may serve
to resolve identity conflict and protect a positive sense of identity. Our findings suggest
that transition toward a nonsmoker identity may be necessary for successful quitting.
Future research investigating ways to help smokers to perceive themselves increasingly
as nonsmokers appears indicated.
Show less- All authors
- Meijer, E.; Vangeli, E.; Gebhardt, W.A.; Laar, C. van
- Date
- 2018
- Journal
- Health