Running Head: VAPING: A TEEN EPIDEMIC
Vaping: A Teen Epidemic
CHMN301
Amy Anderson
Liberty University
Running Head: VAPING: A TEEN EPIDEMIC
Introduction
Most adults are watching the current generation, also known as, “Gen Z’s or iGen’s”, as a
movement that’s changing culture with gadgets, social media, and technology. But nothing has
had such a rapid increase of participation than the launch of e-cigarettes. The percentage of teens
today that are struggling with anxiety and depression are finding the use of smoking devices as a
way to cope with their mental angst. The disturbing growth towards external gratification should
give today’s parents a reason to be on high alert for the future leaders of tomorrow.
The Hype
Cigarettes have been around since 1865 and at one time was an indication of wealth and
prestige. But, as health awareness and cancer risks have been brought to the forefront, the world
recognizes that smoking cigarettes is not considered a favorable habit. In 2007, a China
manufacturer of the e-cigarette staked its claim in the United States and as they say, “the rest is
history.” The e-cigarette was initially created as a “healthier alternative to smoking conventional
cigarettes.” (Douglass & Solecki, 2017) The stark difference between cigarettes and the
vaporizing devices (Vapes or Juul’s) is the variety of substances that can be used, such as
nicotine, flavorings, cannabis, or other substances in popularity. This variety is what has drawn
teenagers in due to the fact that it is so much easier to hide from parents, teachers, and their
community.
Statistics
From the time vapes were introduced back in 2007, the popularity made its way quite
quickly. By 2011, the National Tobacco Survey reported a “moderate increase amongst teens
(grades 6-12) from 1.1% to 2.1%.” (Douglass & Solecki) But by 2014, e-cigarettes had become
Running Head: VAPING: A TEEN EPIDEMIC
the most popular form of tobacco use by teens and in 2015 every 1 and 6 school students had
reported trying e-cigarettes. The Journal of Adolescent Health reported that studies have
identified three different classes of vapers: vaping to experiment (29.4%), vaping to replace
cigarettes (7.3%), and vaping for taste and experiment (63.4%) (Evans-Polce, Patrick, Lanza, et
al)
Research has already shown that tobacco of any form is harmful, regardless of the
amount of consumption. When vaping came onto the scene, there wasn’t a lot of evidence behind
the long-term effects of its use. Tobacco use has a history of leaving its mark with various forms
of cancer. E-cigarettes come with a whole other arsenal of ramifications because of the aerosol
and additives found in the products used. Harmful effects that have been found are “exposure to
propylene glycol aerosol, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and various metals.” (Douglass, et al)
The Problem
Beyond the health risks of the growing use of Vape’s and Juul’s there are some equally
disturbing issues that come along with usage. With an increasing addiction for a teenager today,
also comes a huge expense. In a story reported by NBC News, Luka Kinard’s vaping habit was
spinning out of control. A 15-year-old Sophomore high school student shared, “I was selling my
clothes…I was doing anything to get money.” All of this to support his daily use of vape
cartridges. He was spending almost $150 a week on his addiction when all of it came to a sudden
stop. Kindard suffered a seizure due to his overuse of Juuling. Thankfully, his medical diagnosis
was considered substance abuse and Luka entered into a 40-day treatment program. Luka did
shed light that his initial intention to even trying the Juul was his desire to fit in. He then went on
to say, “Especially when you’re in high school, you’re a freshman, and you see a junior or senior
using it and you want to do what the older people are doing.” (Kindard, 2019)
Running Head: VAPING: A TEEN EPIDEMIC
Biblical Response
Sin has held humanity in bondage from the beginning. While God knew that his people
would have many struggles, addiction has separated so many people from God’s purpose in their
lives. God’s word offers so much instruction on raising up his children and its purpose is evident,
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from
it.” Proverbs 22:6
The role of the parent is so critical in molding and shaping morals and values that are
based on Christianity. This can often be called Faith Developing by many scholars which is
defined as “an intentional process by which the faithful are guided to grow in their relationship
with God and the accompanying change in lifestyle.” (Niekertk & Breed, 2018) From the time a
child comes into the world, that shaping is already taking place with love and nurturing. Through
each developmental stage of a child comes instrumental needs that needs to be instilled by
parenting. Studies show that “95% of respondents surveyed indicated that their values as
Christians were influenced by the values that they saw modelled by their parents.” (Niekertk et
al) And just the opposite the affect can take place when a family is broken by divorce, family
conflict and a high occurrence of an absentee father. While a child can go wayward and go
against how they are raised, the likelihood that a stable home and loving environment in which a
child is raised lends to a healthier outcome as a teenager and ultimately, an adult.
Running Head: VAPING: A TEEN EPIDEMIC
References
Niekert, M., Breed, G. (2018). The role of parents in the development of faith from birth to seven
years of age. HTS Teologiese Studies. 74.2.
Douglass, B., Soleck, S. (2017). Teen Vaping: time to clear the air. Contemporary Pediatrics.
34.8, pg. 24.
Evans-Polce, R., Patrick, M., Lanza, S., Miech, R., O’Malley, P., Johnston, L. (2017). Reasons
for vaping among U.S. 12th graders. Journal of Adolescent Health.
Dunn. L., Fox, M., Beck, C. (2019). Vaping sent this teenager into rehab. His parents blame
Juul’s heavy nicotine dose. Retrieved from
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/vaping-
sent-teenager-rehab-his-parents-blame-juul-s-heavy-n956356
