The Truth About Social Smoking: How Bad For You Is It?
Saturday, September 10, 2011
By
It’s a Saturday night, and you’re at a party with friends. Someone offers you a cigarette with your beer. You don’t smoke that often, so you accept — harmless, right? Going out for a smoke every now and then might not seem like a big deal, but it can easily become something more serious. You’re sure you’ve got your habits under control, but pretty soon, you’re sneaking a cigarette during late-night library visits and eventually going through a pack per day.
About the Author
Biography
Cameron is a senior at Bucknell University pursuing degrees in English and Theatre. Born and raised in suburban Philadelphia, she is a member of Delta Gamma sorority and recently spent a semester abroad in London (tea and scones galore!). Her favorite things include (but are not limited to) anything with the word "coffee" in it, her two shih tzus, peppermint gum, reality tv, and spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, dancing, staying active, and singing. Her claim to fame? She was a street shoutout on the show "Cash Cab".
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Comments
Well, I've been a light smoker for about 5 years. On a bad day, I'll have 5 cigarettes, but most of the time, I have a cigarette a day, or not any. I've never felt the need to smoke more than that. I still think smoking is bad and that people shouldn't start, but having one drunk smoke won't turn you into an addict.
I am relieved that you added "I still think smoking is bad and that people shouldn't start".
To state that "Having one drunk smoke won't turn you into an addict" is irresponsible. The whole point of the article, in my opinion, is that addictive behavior can sprout without much warning.
I am glad that smoking didn't turn YOU into an addict, but that does not mean that others will be as lucky.
Casual Smoking does not CAUSE addiction absolutely, but you can not argue the CORRELATION. 100% of people that are addicted to cigarettes started by smoking a single cig.
Without the first smoke - even if it is "one drunken smoke" - these people never could have gotten addicted.
Everyone's (psychological and physiological) sensitivity and dependency on nicotine and cigarettes VARY. What is true for you is not necessarily so for the next person.
Nicotine is an exceptionally addictive drug.
Cigarette smoking IS an exceptionally lethal habit.
Again, I am glad that your smoking "isn't a habit".
I simply felt obligated to pose an opposition to the conclusion that "one drunk smoke won't turn you into a habit"
Great article Cameron!
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