Self-concept changes over time in cognitive-behavioral treatment for smoking cessation

Addict Behav. 1996 Sep-Oct;21(5):659-63. doi: 10.1016/0306-4603(95)00088-7.

Abstract

A smoker self-concept and an abstainer self-concept are individual difference variables that have been shown to predict smoking cessation. We examined whether these self-concept constructs changed as a function of participating in a clinic-based smoking cessation program and, specifically, whether these changes occurred differentially between posttreatment smokers and abstainers. Subjects completed the Smoker Self-concept scale and the Abstainer Self-concept scale at three time points: pretreatment, posttreatment, and 3 months' posttreatment. Smoking status was assessed and biochemically verified directly after quit day and 3 months' posttreatment. Results indicated that abstainers' smoker self-concept decreased more precipitously over time compared to smokers'. Abstainers showed consistent increases over time in their abstainer self-concept, and smokers showed increases followed by decreases to pretreatment levels. Clinical implications are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Self Concept*
  • Smoking Cessation / methods
  • Smoking Cessation / psychology*
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome