Understanding Vaping Perception and Decision- Making Among Tertiary Students in Invercargill, New Zealand
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Authors
Lanerolle, Chinthaka Nalin De
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Degree
Master of Applied Management
Grantor
Southern Institute of Technology
Date
2025
Supervisors
Kumar, Vijay
Type
Masters Dissertation
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
Vaping Behaviour
Tertiary Students
Peer Influence
Purchasing Decisions
Coping Strategies
Tertiary Students
Peer Influence
Purchasing Decisions
Coping Strategies
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
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Abstract
This study explored the vaping behaviours of tertiary students in Invercargill, New Zealand, and it focused on how students are introduced to vaping, their purchasing decisions, and the psychological and social factors influencing continues use or cessation.
A qualitative research methodology was used, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten tertiary students, including both local and international. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Research identified key patterns such as peer influence, product accessibility, purchasing behaviour, emotional triggers and quitting intentions. The findings revealed that most students were introduced to vaping through social settings rather than online influence. Further study revealed that curiosity, peer recommendations, and flavour appeal were the main factors that influenced the vaping initiation among tertiary students. Furthermore, affordability, convenience, and promotional deals were the main factors that influenced the purchasing decision of the tertiary students. Many students reported that they were using vapes as a coping mechanism for stress, loneliness, and boredom.
The study found that social environment, stress, and accessibility were the main drivers behind continuing of vaping and lack of reliable information, and emotional triggers acted as barriers to quitting vaping. Furthermore, participants mentioned alternative coping strategies such as exercise, art and chewing gum. Recommendations include implementing target awareness campaigns, improving clear health information channels, and promoting non-vaping coping strategies. Further research is suggested to explore regional and cultural differences and inform applied management practices related to students’ well-being and public health.
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CC BY-NC Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International