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Understanding Vaping: A Guide for Parents, Part 1

 

See: Part 2  Part 3

 

What is Vaping

Vaping is a prevalent trend among teenagers, trapping adolescents across the globe. As a concerned parent, understanding what vaping is, is crucial in navigating conversations with your teenager and providing the necessary support. Vaping, short for vaporizing, means inhaling and exhaling aerosol, often mistaken as vapor, produced by an electronic device. Unlike traditional smoking, which involves combustion, vaping devices heat a liquid solution, converting it into an inhalable aerosol. This liquid, known as e-liquid or vape juice, typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. The allure of vaping lies in its diverse flavors, discreet nature, and perceived social acceptance among peers, making it appealing to teens.

 

It's not a vapor, it’s an aerosol.

 

Why: Tastes good. Feels good. Social pressure to belong. Easy to hide.

 

Story:
A stranger watches a mom and her not-quite-teen daughter in disbelief. It's in H&M in the mall, for goodness sake. The daughter wasn't alone with her mom. Three of her friends were with them. The mom was having fun treating the group. The stranger noticed that whenever the mom turned her back, one of the kids put something small to their mouth and breathed in. Then the kid passed it to another friend in the group. What was most amazing was this: It was clear that the mom had no idea.

 

 

Different Types of Vaping

Different vaping devices cater to different preferences and experiences. They range from beginner-friendly disposable e-cigarettes to advanced customizable mods. Disposable e-cigarettes, resembling traditional cigarettes, are often favored by novice users due to their simplicity and convenience. On the other hand, refillable pod systems offer more customization options, allowing users to adjust settings such as airflow and wattage to suit their preferences. Additionally, vape mods, equipped with advanced features and larger battery capacities, appeal to enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance and vapor production. Despite the differences in design and functionality, these devices share the common purpose of delivering nicotine and flavorings through inhalation.

 

Do you recognize the flavor smells? Know what’s most popular? It’s time to get smart.

 

Widespread

The popularity of vaping among teenagers is undeniable, with studies indicating a concerning increase in adolescent vaping rates in recent years. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 27.3% of high school seniors reported vaping nicotine in 2022*, highlighting the widespread prevalence of this behavior among adolescents. Factors contributing to the popularity of vaping among teenagers include peer influence, social media marketing, and misconceptions about its safety compared to traditional smoking. Additionally, the accessibility of vaping products, often available in convenience stores and online platforms, facilitates easy access for underage individuals.

 

27.3% of teens reported vaping nicotine. How many didn’t report it?

 

Vaping is marketed to kids, and they know it. They? Yes. Vap Companies AND the kids.

 

Support

As parents, it is essential to stay informed about the risks associated with vaping. While vaping has been marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, research suggests otherwise. Studies link vaping to many serious health risks, including respiratory issues, nicotine addiction, and potential long-term harm to brain development in adolescents. Organizations such as Parents Against Vaping E-cigarettes (PAVE) strive to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping and advocate for policies to protect youth from its harmful effects. By engaging in open and honest conversations with your teenager, providing accurate information about vaping, and offering support and resources. You empowering them to make informed choices is one of the best things you can do.

 

Watch for upcoming posts in this series:
• Connection & Communication is Critical
• What Overcoming Vaping Looks Like

 

You are not alone. Reach out to me for help. –Jenn

 

 

 

Go to: Part 2