A Study of Adolescents' Perceptions of Smoking Cessation Efforts at SMK Negeri 2 Buton Utara, Wakorumba Utara District, Buton Utara Regency in 2025

Background: Teenagers are a vulnerable group to smoking, which can lead to various health problems, both physical and psychological. Although some teens are aware of the dangers of smoking, their success rate in quitting is still relatively low. Environmental influences and social pressure are dominant factors in developing smoking habits in adolescents. However, some teens are able to quit due to motivation from personal experiences and awareness of the negative impacts of smoking on their health. Objective: This study aims to analyze adolescents' perceptions regarding smoking cessation efforts based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) components, namely perceived severity, triggers for action, and self-efficacy.

Method: This study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 13 informants: 6 adolescents from SMK Negeri 2 Buton Utara who had quit smoking, 6 family members, and 1 guidance counselor using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using Nvivo software.

Result: The research results show that the intensity of perception is formed from direct experience with health impacts such as shortness of breath, coughing, and decreased stamina, which fosters a desire to quit. The trigger for action arises from internal motivation, such as a desire to improve health, and external support from family, school, and peers. Meanwhile, self-confidence is a key factor determining adolescents' success and consistency in quitting smoking, through the ability to control urges, resist temptation, and replace behaviors with positive activities, such as choosing exercise.

Conclusion: Data analyzed using the Nvivo program revealed that adolescents who quit smoking are influenced by perceived severity, triggers for action, and self-efficacy, all of which play complementary roles in the process of behavioral change. Emotional family support and strong self-awareness are key to maintaining a sustainable commitment to quitting.