Assessing Perceived Stress and Smoking Status in Young Adults: A PSQ-Based Evaluation of Psychosocial Factors and Coping Mechanisms

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between perceived stress and smoking behavior among young adults aged 18 to 30, with a specific focus on gender differences and coping strategies. Smoking is often perceived as a means to reduce psychological stress; however, this research examines whether stress levels genuinely differ between smokers and non-smokers. Using the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ) and a self-developed psychosocial and coping inventory, data were collected from a purposive sample of 100 participants equally divided by smoking status and gender. Statistical analyses, including independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, and regression models, revealed that smokers experience significantly higher stress levels than non-smokers, with female smokers reporting the highest perceived stress across all subgroups. Interestingly, the duration of smoking did not significantly influence stress levels, suggesting that the psychological impact of smoking may not be cumulative. These findings highlight the ineffectiveness of smoking as a coping mechanism and emphasize the need for alternative stress-management strategies, particularly for young women. Although the study is limited by its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, it contributes meaningfully to understanding the interplay between stress and smoking and calls for gender-sensitive interventions promoting emotional well-being.