Peer-Related Correlates of e-Cigarette Use in Australian Adolescents: a Cross-sectional Examination

Abstract

Background This study examined cross-sectional associations between e-cigarette use and (i) perceived peer use of e-cigarettes and (ii) bullying (perpetration and/or victimisation) in Australian adolescents. Methods Data were collected in 2022 as part of a cluster randomised controlled trial. Logistic regressions examined associations between e-cigarette use (ever use) and the perceived proportion of friends who use e-cigarettes, bullying victimisation, bullying perpetration and “bully-victim” status (i.e. having perpetrated and been bullied). Results The sample comprised 4204 participants (Mage = 15.70, SD = 0.60). Perceived peer e-cigarette use (OR = 2.59, 95% CI = 2.42, 2.77 p < .001), bullying victimisation (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.46, p = .004), bullying perpetration (OR = 3.00, 95% CI = 2.45, 3.66, p < .001) and being a “bully-victim” (OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 2.06, 3.24, p < .001) were associated with increased odds of ever having used an e-cigarette. Conclusions While further longitudinal research is required, results suggest that future prevention efforts for adolescent e-cigarette use could target peer-related factors, such as perceived peer use and bullying.