Self-efficacy to refrain from smoking predicted by major depression and nicotine dependence

Little is known about the specific pathways between depression and low self-efficacy to stop smoking, particularly among the general population. The goal was to examine whether depression and nicotine dependence may predict the confidence in the ability to refrain from smoking (CAS). A random population sample aged 18-64 was used from northern Germany. It included 1520 current smokers, who were eligible for a first follow-up after 30 months and a second follow-up after 36 months. The results show that DSM-IV major depression and nicotine dependence, the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), the number of cigarettes smoked, the age at onset of daily smoking, and the intention to stop smoking predict the CAS. It is concluded that there may be an additive effect from nicotine dependence and major depression on the CAS. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.