Greek elementary school children's beliefs about long-term effects of drinking and smoking

Abstract

Tobacco use and alcohol consumption are two of the most hazardous habits, leading to serious health problems. The present study aimed at investigating Greek elementary school children's conceptions regarding the effects of long-term alcohol consumption and tobacco use, along with their attitudes towards those substances and their intentions for using them. A total of 605 students (302 boys and 303 girls) aged 10-12 years old participated in the study, in which an 18-item questionnaire was used. Our results indicate that children's knowledge on the effects of smoking and drinking were limited and somewhat confused. Regarding their attitudes, although children were negatively disposed towards smoking and drinking, they seemed to be more strict towards smoking in comparison to drinking, especially when asked about adult smoking and drinking. Finally, although the majority of children expressed no intention to smoke or drink at present, more than half of them stated that they will drink as adults.