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Lighting Up

Young Adults' Autobiographical Accounts of their First Smoking Experiences

University of Central Florida

Peggy J. Kreshel

University of Georgia

Leonard N. Reid

University of Georgia

In this study, the authors explored young adults' autobiographical memories of their first consumption experiences with cigarettes using a form of life history. We collected and analyzed 276 first-person essays to discover the significance of conditions and factors associated with the first act of smoking. For the study's participants, the first-use experience was a symbolically significant and enduring life event. Participants were able to provide rich and detailed recollections about the contextual nature of the first smoking act and the influences and outcomes associated with the event. Suggestions for the development of intervention communication programs are offered as well as recommendations for future research.

Key Words: cigarettes • smoking • youth

Youth & Society, Vol. 34, No. 4, 468-496 (2003)
DOI: 10.1177/0044118X03034004004


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