| Abstract: | Data on the antecedents of relapse crises (actual or near lapses in abstinence) were collected from 183 former smokers who called a relapse-counseling hotline. Most relapse crises were associated with anxiety, anger, and depression. One-third of relapse crises were associated with positive feeling states and were frequently precipitated by other smokers, eating, and alcohol consumption. Withdrawal symptoms played a part in only half of the episodes. Ss' coping responses rather than situational antecedents distinguished relapse crises resulting in smoking from those in which abstinence was maintained. A combination of cognitive and behavioral responses was most successful. Behavioral coping was subject to situational influences; Ss who had been drinking alcohol were less likely to engage in behavioral coping, and depression diminished its effectiveness. Cognitive coping responses, which were less affected by these variables, may be critical components of former smokers' coping repertoires. (31 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
