Peer Pressure, Family Dysfunction, and Neighbourhood Risk as Predictors of Smoking Behaviour among Adolescents in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explored the psychosocial predictors of smoking behaviour among adolescents in Ogun State, Nigeria, focusing on the roles of peer pressure, family dysfunction, and neighbourhood risk factors. Employing a descriptive survey design, the study sampled 119 adolescents aged 12–18 years from three purposively selected Local Government Areas: Ado-Odo/Ota, Sagamu, and Abeokuta North. A snowball sampling technique ensured representation of both in-school and out-of-school adolescents from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Data were collected using validated instruments, including the Peer Pressure Inventory, the McMaster Family Assessment Device, the Neighbourhood Risk Index, and an adapted Youth Smoking Survey. Descriptive statistics summarised participants’ profiles, while Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analyses determined the relationships and predictive strengths of the psychosocial variables. Results indicated significant positive correlations among peer pressure, family dysfunction, neighbourhood risk, and smoking behaviour. Peer pressure emerged as the strongest individual predictor, followed by neighbourhood risk and family dysfunction. These findings highlight the critical influence of social and environmental contexts on adolescent smoking. The study underscores the need for early, context-sensitive interventions that integrate peer, familial, and community-level strategies to curb adolescent tobacco use in Nigeria.