Perception of smoking risks and motivation to quit among nontreatment-seeking smokers with and without schizophrenia

Abstract

Objective: We examined perceived consequences/benefits of cigarette smoking and motivation for quitting in nontreatment-seeking smokers who had schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (N = 100) or had no Axis I psychiatric disorder (normals, N = 100). Methods: Participants completed questionnaires and provided a breath carbon monoxide (CO) sample 10-15 minutes after smoking 1 preferred-brand cigarette. Primary assessments included the Smoking Consequences Questionnaire-Adult, the Reasons for Quitting Scale, and the Stages of Change.Results:There were no differences between the schizophrenia and control group in mean age of smoking onset (16.2 ± 5.4 vs 15.6 ± 5.5 y, P =. 44), number of cigarettes daily (17.9 ± 11.6 vs 17.0 ± 7.9, P = 0.51), or in breath CO (28.0 ± 14.5 vs 22.9 ± 8.0 ppm, P =. 61). Compared with normals, people with schizophrenia report greater stimulation/state enhancement (P