How to Convince an Adult to Stop Smoking
Instructions
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1
Suggest specific ways a smoker can quit. If a certain nicotine-replacement product failed before, tell the smoker about new smoking cessation drugs and products on the market.
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2
Ask the smoker how you can aid her quitting efforts. Perhaps the smoker wants a walking buddy to ease the jitters. Maybe the smoker would like text-message reminders to stay on target.
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3
Express empathy for the challenge that smoking cessation provides. Rather than saying, "Just do it cold turkey; you're strong," say, "I know this is a difficult time for you and that you miss your cigarettes. Take it one day at a time."
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4
Frame your argument in terms of your concern for him, using "I language." For example, instead of saying, "You have to quit because you're ruining your health," say, "I'm concerned about the effects smoking has on your health."
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5
Give smoking-cessation literature to the smoker only upon request. Pushing literature into someone's face is invasive and can offend the smoker.
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6
Remain positive in your efforts to convince someone to stop smoking. If you remind the smoker about her previous unsuccessful quitting attempts, your efforts could backfire.
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7
Offer your consistent support, even when the smoker has a setback in his quitting efforts. Instead of harping on his failure, say, "I know you can do this. Tomorrow will be a better day."
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