Exploring the Relationships Between Social Influence, Vaping Behaviors, and Susceptibility Across Grade Levels in Kentucky

Authors

• Raphael Adesiyan, University of KentuckyFollow
• Odunayo O. Omotilewa, University of KentuckyFollow
• Saber Feizy, University of KentuckyFollow
• Melinda J. Ickes, University of KentuckyFollow

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored the relationships between social influence, vaping behavior, and susceptibility across different grade levels.   Design: The study design was cross-sectional. Data were collected from middle and high school students who voluntarily participated between September 2022 and April 2023.   Sample: A convenience sample of students in 6^th to 12^th grades in Kentucky (N = 4677).   Measures: Demographic information, including age, grade level, school location, and race/ethnicity, was collected. The outcome variables included social influence, susceptibility, and vaping behavior.   Analysis: Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between social influence, vaping behavior, and susceptibility.   Results: The analysis showed significant differences in vaping behaviors and susceptibility between middle and high school students, with high school students having higher odds of vaping (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = [1.15, 2.17]). However, after adjusting for covariates, grade level differences were no longer significant (aOR = 1.01, 95% CI = [0.67, 1.51]). The adjusted model showed that youth with 1 vaping friend were 3 times more likely to try vaping (aOR = 2.83, 95% CI = [1.91, 4.22]), while those with 5 vaping friends were over 22 times more likely (aOR = 22.30, 95% CI = [13.34, 37.29]).   Conclusion: The results emphasize the need for primary interventions that address social influences on youth vaping initiation and continued use among students across middle and high school grade levels.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2026

Notes/Citation Information

© The Author(s) 2026

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1177/08901171251413763

Funding Information

The authors disclosed receipt of the support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: This work was supported by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentucky Prevention and Cessation Program.

Repository Citation

Adesiyan, Raphael; Omotilewa, Odunayo O.; Feizy, Saber; and Ickes, Melinda J., "Exploring the Relationships Between Social Influence, Vaping Behaviors, and Susceptibility Across Grade Levels in Kentucky" (2026). Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Publications. 36.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/khp_facpub/36