A grounded theory of snuff-dipping behaviour (use of Swedish ‘snus’) in a Norwegian population

Abstract

In Scandinavia, use of oral moist snuff tobacco (Swedish ‘snus’) has increased in popularity over the last two decades. However, there is a general lack of qualitative research investigating causal factors and motivations for snuff use in different populations. The objective is to examine how snuff-dipping is acquired, developed and maintained in a Norwegian population. A structured grounded theory approach was used. Fourteen participants were interviewed for the study, aged between 18 and 38 years, with an average age of 26 years. The interviews focused on what role snuff-dipping played in participants’ lives, and the aim was to establish how snuff-dipping was acquired, developed and maintained. Context-specific mood modification emerged as the core category for snuff-dipping behaviour. This involved an urge for stimulation and arousal at specific times or in certain settings. Snuff-dipping behaviour was acquired either through conformity to a social group ritual or for smoking cessation purposes. Rationalisation served to maintain the behaviour, and helped weaken incentives to quit snuff-dipping. Snuff-dipping behaviour was acquired through conformity to a social group ritual or as a replacement for cigarettes. Context-specific mood modification was identified as the prime motivation for continuing the behaviour, while rationalisation also led to behaviour maintenance. Limitations of the study and implications for snuff prevention and intervention are discussed, while suggestions for future research are provided.

• Snuff
• smoking cessation
• coping
• mood modification
• withdrawal effects

Notes

Notes

1. Floorball is a sport becoming increasingly popular in Scandinavia and Central Europe. It can be described as a form of hockey played indoors.