Exploring the Relationships Between Social Influence, Vaping Behaviors, and Susceptibility Across Grade Levels in Kentucky

Purpose This study explored the relationships between social influence, vaping behavior, and susceptibility across different grade levels. Design The study design was cross-sectional. Data were collected from middle and high school students who voluntarily participated between September 2022 and April 2023. Sample A convenience sample of students in 6 th to 12 th grades in Kentucky (N = 4677). Measures Demographic information, including age, grade level, school location, and race/ethnicity, was collected. The outcome variables included social influence, susceptibility, and vaping behavior. Analysis Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between social influence, vaping behavior, and susceptibility. Results The analysis showed significant differences in vaping behaviors and susceptibility between middle and high school students, with high school students having higher odds of vaping (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = [1.15, 2.17]). However, after adjusting for covariates, grade level differences were no longer significant (aOR = 1.01, 95% CI = [0.67, 1.51]). The adjusted model showed that youth with 1 vaping friend were 3 times more likely to try vaping (aOR = 2.83, 95% CI = [1.91, 4.22]), while those with 5 vaping friends were over 22 times more likely (aOR = 22.30, 95% CI = [13.34, 37.29]). Conclusion The results emphasize the need for primary interventions that address social influences on youth vaping initiation and continued use among students across middle and high school grade levels.