What is vaping?
Vaping involves inhaling an aerosol created by an electronic device, often called a vape or e-cigarette.
Many vaping products contain nicotine, while others may contain different substances. They often come in flavors that can make them appealing to young people. Vaping devices are also often small and discreet, making them easy to conceal and difficult for adults to recognize.
Although vaping products are intended for adults, many young people are still exposed to vaping through friends, older peers, social media, and other influences.
Why do young people vape?
There isn’t just one reason. Young people may vape because of:
- Curiosity
- Social pressure or wanting to fit in
- Exposure through social media
- Appealing flavors
- Stress or difficult emotions
- A belief that vaping is safer than other substances
Understanding these reasons can help families have more productive conversations.
Why are adults concerned about young people vaping?
Many vaping products contain nicotine. Nicotine can:
- Be highly addictive
- Affect attention, mood, and learning
- Impact healthy brain development
While not every young person who tries vaping develops a serious problem, early nicotine use can increase the risk of nicotine dependence and other health concerns over time.
