Perceived messages from schools regarding adolescent tobacco use

Abstract
This study conducted focus group interviews with 8th and 12th grade adolescent tobacco users to examine perceived messages from their school systems regarding tobacco use. This was part of a larger study sponsored by the CDC on adolescents’ reasons for tobacco use. Two clear patterns of perceptions emerged. 1) Students perceive school systems to be hypocritical and to be sending contradictory messages regarding the use of tobacco. 2) The reward/punishment structure of public school systems may not be effective in deterring tobacco use among adolescents.