The aim of the study described in this article was to explore how non-smoking
adolescent girls, living in a smokers? environment, explained the reasons for their own
non-smoking behaviour. Eleven girls aged 14?16 years were interviewed. All had
parents and best friends who were smokers.The interviews were semi-structured.Data
were analysed according to guidelines suggested by Kvale (1997).The findings revealed
that non-smoking behaviour was often preceded by a deliberate decision, which was
sometimes made early in life. Moreover, the decision was implemented and repeated
during the course of time, in a dynamic process that involved the girls? inner as well as
external resources and experiences. The findings are discussed within the theoretical
framework of Bronfenbrenner?s ecological model.We also discuss how risk behaviour
may be prevented within the girls? ecological system. |