Why Do Some People Start Smoking Due to Relationships?

The question of whether starting smoking is influenced by a relationship is a complex one. Indeed, in early 20’s, people frequently seek to align their habits with those of their partners. Here are some personal and shared stories that illustrate the dynamics at play.

Starting Smoking to Fit In

One individual, who began smoking in their early 20's, found themselves starting smoking because of a boyfriend. The boyfriend, who was 'hot', wanted to be with someone who smoked. This individual initially resisted, stating, 'I wouldn’t quit smoking for anyone.'
However, after a series of events orchestrated by a friend to play cupid, the couple began dating and eventually sleeping together. The boyfriend expressed being turned on by the smoking, leading them to smoke after intimacy. Over time, the boyfriend began smoking more frequently, and the shared habit strengthened their bond. This led the individual to realize, after marriage, they had picked up the habit of smoking with her, maintaining it to this day.

Single Women and Relational Smokes

Another individual shared a situation where a woman, weary of dealing with certain people in her intimate relationships, devised an innovative strategy. She would write the name of her partner on the right sock and her name on the left sock, then wear them to bed. After waking, she would realize the artificial nature of the relationship. While this did not end the relationship, it provided her with a sense of comfort and security, proving the importance of genuine connection in such dynamics.

Independence in Smoking Habits

Some individuals start smoking on their own, without the influence of a relationship. For example, one smoker in a non-smoking relationship felt it was not worth asking her partner to start smoking due to the health risks. She was more concerned about the health of those around her than her partner. As she stated, 'I would fear for the people around me more than I do for myself. Moreover, I don’t think smoking would look good on him.' It's important to note that the decision is personal, and not everyone starts smoking due to a partner.

Dependency on Relationships

There are also those who believe relationships play a significant role in smoking habits. In these cases, the decision to smoke is often conditional on the relationship. As one person put it, 'I would consider if the relationship is worth it if you have to start smoking.'

Conclusion

The link between smoking and relationships is complex and varies from person to person. While some find solace in shared habits with their partners, others prefer to break free from such dependencies. Regardless, it is crucial to consider the health effects of smoking and the impact on the people around you.