Chinese adolescent smoking, sexuality-related activities, and linkage to psychosocial profiles

Abstract

Purpose: Given young people's psychosocial vulnerabilities, the images and symbols surrounding smoking cigarettes (i.e., sophistication, success, sex appeal, etc.) may be particularly attractive for adolescents. Just as viewing pornography and masturbation may form the main route for Chinese adolescents to initiate exploration of their sexuality, smoking cigarettes may also be seen as a symbolic of being mature, sexually desired and socially confident. This paper examines the occurrence of smoking and sexuality-related activities (i.e., dating, engaging in masturbation and viewing pornography) among Chinese adolescents in Beijing, and its relationship with psychosocial profiles, including descriptions of self-image, sexuality-related attitudes, and social anxiety.