The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #40508

Scott L. Hershberger, PhD¹, Grace L Reynolds, DPA(c)², Michele M. Wood, MS², Michael A. Janson, BA², Jennifer A. Klahn, MA², and Dennis G. Fisher, PhD². (1) Department of Psychology, California State University, Long Beach, 1250 Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90840, 562-985-5012, scotth@csulb.edu, (2) Center for Behavioral Research & Services, California State University, Long Beach, 1090 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90813

Abstract Introduction: Evidence has suggested that a variety of differences in nicotine dependence (ND) exist between men and women; among individuals of differing sexual orientation, and among races. Methods: The sample was 298 street-recruited men and women. ND was measured using three scales: the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), the Tobacco Dependence Screener (TDS), and the Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU). Results: Women were significantly (p < .05) more likely than men to give up work or social activities in order to smoke. Black men scored significantly greater than white men on an FTND total score. Black men also required their first cigarette sooner after waking in the morning than white men, and smoked more overall than white men. Black men experienced more somatic/psychological problems accompanying attempts at quitting than Hispanic men, and affirmative responses to more QSU items than any other racial-sex group. No sexual orientation differences were found on any of the ND indicators. Conclusions: Among the demographic differences found, black men appear to exhibit more indications of ND than any other group.

Learning Objectives:

• To identify whether any differences exist among different demographic groups with respect to smoking behavior

Keywords: Smoking, Smoking Cessation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.