During the past few years, there has been a dramatic increase in past month electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use from 1.5% to 14% among college students. E-cigarette users are more likely to smoke regular cigarettes and cannabis. This has led researchers to investigate potential ways to change the perception of these substances in order to prevent problematic substance use. The lateral attitude change (LAC) framework is one potential method for change that involves changing the perception of one object to influence the perception of similar objects. This study examines the relationships between e-cigarettes, regular cigarettes, and cannabis within a LAC framework and seeks to determine if changes in perception of one substance alter perceptions of the other substances.

The study’s sample consisted of 188 White and Hispanic undergraduate students. Students were asked to complete a survey that assessed harm beliefs/perceptions, intent to use, and peer influence for e-cigarettes, regular cigarettes, and cannabis. Participants completed this survey prior to viewing education material (t1) and after viewing the education materials (t2). Data was analyzed using MANOVAs to explore the influence of the education material on students’ perception of and intent to use e-cigarettes, regular cigarettes, and cannabis.

Results of the data analysis showed that perceived harm of cannabis, e-cigarettes, and cigarettes increased at time t2 from time t1. The increase in harm beliefs surrounding e-cigarettes was found to be generalized to regular cigarettes and marijuana. Intent for future use of these substances was decreased at t2 compared to t1. Lastly, peer influence was also impacted by the educational material as participants were less likely to use any of the substances if their best friend offered at t2.

Takeaway: Interventions targeting perceptions of e-cigarette use may impact perceptions of regular cigarettes and cannabis.

Ajumobi, O., Jami, W., Kemmelmeier, M., Devereux, P.. A Brief Intervention on E-Cigarette, Regular Cigarette, and Marijuana Use Results in Generalization Effects: Lateral Attitude Change among College Students [published online ahead of print, 2022 Jun 10]. Substance Use and Misuse. 2022;1-8. doi:10.1080/10826084.2022.2086697