Relationships between self-esteem and smoking experimentation in childhood

There have been mixed results concerning any association between self-esteem and smoking prevalence in young people. The aim of this paper was to investigate cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between self-esteem and the uptake of smoking in childhood, and how various sub-components of self-esteem are related to smoking. A sample of children taking part in the Liverpool Longitudinal Study of Smoking (LLSS) completed the Harter Self-Perception Profile for Children (SPPC) and a smoking survey annually for four years from age 8. Results showed that low scores on the SPPC related to trying smoking. Concurrent associations were found with three specific domains of the SPPC, with scholastic competence at age 10, and physical appearance and behavioural conduct at ages 10 and 11. However, self-esteem levels were not predictive of subsequent smoking. These patterns of results highlight the need for longitudinal research in this area, and considering different domains of self-esteem. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.