Use of e-cigarettes among young queer men living in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Introduction. Queer-identifying (non-heterosexual) men report higher rates of tobacco and e-cigarette use than the general population. The advent of e-cigarettes as a commercial product in Aotearoa New Zealand has been accompanied by aggressive marketing and a sharp uptake in use, especially among young people. Recent evidence suggests that e-cigarettes are widely used for purposes other than smoking cessation. Aim. This study investigated how vaping is perceived and the role e-cigarettes play in the daily lives of young queer users. Methods. Using focus groups with a semi-structured interview proforma, we interviewed twelve young queer men between July and August 2021. Interviews were queer-led, conducted via Zoom, and lasted up to 2 h. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for subsequent inductive and thematic analysis. Results. Of the twelve participants, 10 were daily users, and two described themselves as 'social vapers'. We found strong evidence for minority and intra-minority stress as a driver to uptake and continued use of e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes were also used to navigate new social and cultural spaces and as currency for integration into various social milieux, including both mainstream and gay community spaces. There was little support for queer-targeted cessation initiatives. Discussion. Vaping is highly socially acceptable within queer communities where it is a facilitator of social integration, managing stress and quitting tobacco.

How young people in Aotearoa perceive vaping and the associated oral health risks

“…They have also been heavily promoted and evidence suggests that they are being targeted to young people for lifestyle reasons. [16][17][18] Vape product packaging and point-of-sale marketing provide very general warnings, 17,19 with the potential effects on oral health never mentioned. In the interests of providing accessible, people-centred cessation support in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and dental clinics, patients are routinely asked if they smoke, but it is unclear whether they are also routinely asked if they vape.…”

Shaping Brand Loyalty through Social Media Influencers: The Mediating Role of Follower Engagement and Social Attractiveness

“…The resemblance between SMIs and followers may foster a robust emotional bond, resulting in the influencer's heightened social attractiveness. According to Bouttier-Esprit et al (2023), followers are more likely to be drawn toward influencers who mirror their identities or aspirations, enhancing a sense of belonging and social validation. Therefore, the association of traits between influencers and their followers, influenced by homophily, has a substantial impact on the social attractiveness of influencers, launching the basis for establishing and maintaining long-lasting online connections.…”