A study of perceived stress among smokers and non-smokers in Delhi NCR

Background– Stress is one of the most pervasive phenomena of the modern lifestyle. Stress can be external and related to the environment, but may also be created by internal perception that causes an individual to experience anxiety or other negative emotions surrounding a situation, such as pressure, discomfort etc which they then deem stressful. Literature review shows that, stress among smokers is common all over the world but it has not been sufficiently studied in Indian context, therefore the present study was pursued. Objective– The aim of the present study was to assess the perceived stress among smokers and non-smokers, in Delhi NCR. Material & Methods– The sample consisted of 100 candidates, 50 smokers and 50 non-smokers. Among 50 smokers, 25 female smokers were taken and 25 male smokers. On the other hand, among 50 non- smokers, 25 female non-smokers were taken and 25 male non- smokers were taken, from Delhi NCR. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) Cohen et al., (1988) and initial Performa were administered. Results– The results of the study indicated, that perceived stress was significant among smokers as compared to non- smokers. Further among male and female smokers, more perceived stress was found among female smokers.