Exploratory Validation of a Survey Instrument Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior to Assess Vaping Attitude and Perceptions

Abstract

The prevalence of vaping (e-cigarette use) surged among young individuals, especially university students, highlighting the necessity to explore the factors influencing this behavior. This study aimed to develop and validate the Vaping Attitude and Perceptions Scale (VAPeS), based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A cross-sectional design was employed using a self-administered electronic questionnaire to collect data from university students in Jordan. The questionnaire assessed demographic variables and key constructs of the VAPeS: Social Influence, Perceived Harms, Pleasure Derived from Vaping, Behavioral Influences, and Economic Factors and Self-Efficacy. The survey engaged 671 university students, with 201 (30.0%) reporting the use of tobacco products. Among these tobacco users, a majority (n=126, 62.7%) reported the current use of e-cigarettes. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed a five-factor solution explaining 64.5% of the variance. These factors—Social Influence, Perceived Harms, Vaping Pleasure, Behavioral Influences, and Economic and Self-Efficacy—demonstrated high internal consistency. Regression analysis showed that Social Influence, Behavioral Influences, and sex were significant predictors of vaping behavior, with standardized coefficients of 0.494, 0.206, and −0.154, respectively (P<.001, P=.008, and P=.018). The VAPeS displayed satisfactory psychometric properties, making it a valuable tool for investigating vaping behaviors among the youth. Factors such as Social Influence and Behavioral Influences were significant factors in shaping vaping behaviors among the participants. These insights emphasize the need to consider these dimensions in public health initiatives aimed at managing the rising vaping prevalence among university students. The VAPeS instrument can be utilized for better delineation of vaping behaviors among the younger demographic. Subsequently, the insights gained through VAPeS-based research can help devise targeted educational campaigns aimed at addressing the perceived social acceptability and the supposed safety of vaping.