A stop smoking guide for the self-help quitting process

• Main Author: Cunningham, L. Joseph
• Other Authors: Ball State University. Fisher Institute for Wellness.
• Format: Others
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: Smoking cessation.; Nicotine addiction > Treatment.; Nicotine addiction.; Smoking.
• Online Access: http://cardinalscholar.bsu.edu/handle/handle/184886; http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/917044

The vast majority of smokers who manage to quit do so without the assistance of a facilitated cessation program. Since the majority of focused anti-smoking efforts are directed at facilitated programs, there is an apparent gap in service of the population at risk. Also, the sharp decline in smoking prevalence indicates a changing demographic dynamic. It is probable that those persons still smoking comprise a different population type than did smokers of a decade ago. A reexamination of major strategies for self-quitting is strongly indicated.The purpose of this thesis was to apply what was known about addictive behavior to a self-guided quitting process. Major variables guiding this effort were learning theory, theory of self-change, empirically demonstrated methods of cessation, and psychosocial effects on lifestyle change.The knowledge gained during the process was incorporated into a menu approach that emphasized personal responsibility for the quitting process and allows for choices that serve to tailor the program to the individual's needs. The end result was a quitters' guide, desktop published and prepared in a small quantity for pilot purposes. This guide was evaluated by persons with particular expertise in addictive behavior, especially smoking cessation. An ammended product was then presented to smokers and/or former smokers for further feedback. A journal of the process that detailed both difficulties and successes was also included. === Fisher Institute for Wellness