Investigation of the relationship between university students' coping methods with stress and smoking addiction

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between smoking addiction and coping strategies among university students. The study utilized a correlational research model, with a sample of 380 undergraduate and graduate students studying in Istanbul. Data were collected using the "Smoking Psychological Addiction Scale" and the "Coping with Stress Scale" and analyzed through SPSS. Independent-Samples T Test and Pearson Correlation Test were applied in the analysis. No significant difference was found between smoking addiction and coping strategies in terms of gender. Although females had higher coping scores than males, this difference was not statistically significant. There was also no significant difference between smoking addiction and coping strategies concerning education level. However, individuals in a relationship had significantly higher smoking addiction and avoidance strategy scores compared to those who were not in a relationship (p<0.001). In contrast, those in a relationship had lower scores in problem-focused coping strategies. A positive correlation was found between smoking addiction and avoidance strategies (rh=0.340, p<0.001), while a negative correlation was observed between smoking addiction and problem-focused coping strategies (rh=-0.289, p<0.001). Additionally, a weak negative relationship was identified between age and social support seeking (rh=-0.122, p=0.018). In conclusion, it was determined that smoking addiction and coping strategies did not differ significantly in terms of gender and education level variables. However, relationship status emerged as a factor influencing smoking addiction. Keywords: University Students, Smoking Addiction, Coping with Stress