Student perspectives on smoking and second-hand smoke in Qatar: a participatory photovoice study in a multicultural university context
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Tobacco use among university students presents a persistent public health challenge, particularly in settings where smoking is socially normalized despite strong regulatory frameworks. Qatar, with its multicultural population and progressive tobacco laws, offers a unique context for exploring these dynamics. However, little research has examined how young adults in the region experience and navigate smoking behaviours in everyday life. The study explores how university students’ perception and experience of smoking and second-hand smoke exposure, and examined barriers and facilitators to cessation within their academic and social environments. METHODS: A qualitative study using photovoice methodology was conducted within a community-based participatory research framework. Undergraduate students aged 18–24 at a large national university in Qatar were recruited via purposive and snowball sampling. After a preparatory workshop, participants captured photographs representing their experiences with smoking or second-hand smoke, followed by semi-structured, photo-elicitation interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis of interview transcripts and photographs using a collaborative coding process. Credibility was strengthened through triangulation of visual and narrative data, member checking, and peer debriefing. RESULTS: Twenty-two students (12 females, 10 males; 9 smokers, 13 non-smokers) participated. Thematic analysis revealed five interrelated themes:…
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