The influence of group identification on the adoption of peer group smoking norms

Abstract

According to self-categorisation theory, referent informational influence is a process whereby individuals conform to the norms of social groups with which they identify. This paper investigates whether smoking is a stereotypical attribute of particular social groups and how the group normative influence with regard to smoking may affect group members' personal smoking involvement. A sample of young adults (initial N=3300) was surveyed at 3 six-month intervals after leaving their final year of school. Results showed that particular labels (such as rebels, using illegal drugs and riding motor bikes) were associated with extensive smoking within peer groups. An individual's smoking status was ..