Laura Jones Lecturer in Qualitative & Mixed-Methods Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham
Abstract
Globally, 40% of children are exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS), predominately in the home. The most effective way to reduce children’s SHS exposure, other than quitting, is for carers to make their homes smoke-free. However, some carers face barriers to creating a smoke-free home (SFH) given the behaviour change required. We conducted a systematic search for relevant qualitative and mixed-methods publications in English (1990-2014) and used thematic synthesis to identify commonalities and differences in key themes.
Twenty-two papers reporting enablers, motivators and barriers to SFHs were included. Enablers included carers’ agency to initiate change and enforce rules, and others complying with these rules, facilitated by shared social norms of not smoking near children. The main motivators were the desire to protect others, particularly children, from the harms of SHS and for a clean odour-free household environment. Barriers related to a lack of agency to initiate change; misperceptions or lack of knowledge of the risks of SHS; and the potential negative impact of behaviour change on social relationships.
The findings will be used to develop policy recommendations and inform intervention trials and practitioners can explore these issues when supporting behaviour change for carers who smoke in the home.
Source of funding: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia Early Career Fellowship (APP1072213); Cancer Institute New South Wales Early Career Fellowship (13/ECF/1-11); Wellcome Trust and University of Birmingham ISSF Mobility Scholarship.
