Abstract

The proliferation of emerging tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, has posed significant challenges to addressing the issue of adolescent smoking. This study investigates adolescents’ perceptions and behaviors regarding smoking, including electronic cigarettes, and identifies key associated factors. Results indicate that electronic cigarette users prioritize flavor and price when purchasing and find these products more accessible online. Compared to conventional cigarette smokers, they perceive smoking as less harmful and associate it with a more positive social image. Anti-smoking campaigns are regarded as less effective, while exposure to tobacco advertisements is closely related to smoking behaviors. Additionally, adolescent smoking, particularly the use of electronic cigarettes, is strongly associated with negative psychological traits such as stress and depression. These results highlight the role of electronic cigarettes in lowering smoking initiation barriers among adolescents. The findings of this study highlight the necessity of regulations on electronic cigarettes, such as advertising restrictions, and discuss policy implications for preventing adolescent smoking and promoting smoking cessation.