Nicotine dependence and self-esteem in adolescents with mental disorders.
Recent studies in adolescents have found a weak association between lower self-esteem and smoking. However, this association has not been investigated in a psychiatric setting. In 223 inpatient adolescents [140 girls (16.5 years) and 83 boys (16.4 years)], self-esteem was measured with Coopersmith's self-esteem inventory (SEI), and smoking dependence with the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND). DSM-IV categories included major depression (n=35), anxiety disorders (n=35), psychotic disorders (n=31), eating disorders (n=9), and conduct disorders (n=113). There were 101 smokers and 122 nonsmokers. Self-esteem scores were lower in smokers than in nonsmokers (p=0.039). Self-esteem scores were very significantly lower in smokers showing moderate or high nicotine dependence (i.e., FTND score>or=4) when compared with nonsmokers (p=0.002). Smoking with moderate or high nicotine dependence was associated with lower self-esteem in both girls and boys, whereas smoking with no or low nicotine dependence was associated with lower self-esteem only in girls. Smoking was associated with lower self-esteem in all diagnostic categories, except in eating disorders. Interventions targeted on self-esteem might be used to prevent smoking in adolescents with mental disorders.
Guillon
Marie-Sa
MS
Centre Hospitalier, BP29, 68250 Rouffach, France. ms.guillon@ch-rouffach.fr
Crocq
Marc-Antoine
MA
Bailey
Paul E
PE
D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000379:methods*; D012649:Self Concept; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000523:psychology