Introduction: In Indonesian society, smoking among women remains largely regarded as socially unacceptable. Nevertheless, an increasing number of young women continue to smoke, and the prevalence of this behavior is rising.
Methods: This phenomenological study employed in-depth interviews to explore the meanings and experiences associated with smoking among adolescent females. The study involved 11 young women who began smoking during junior high and high school (mean age = 16 years). An in-depth interview guide was developed based on relevant literature and subsequently reviewed and validated by public health experts.
Results: The findings revealed that the participants often perceived cigarettes as their “closest friends,” offering relief from emotional burdens and mental distress. Factors such as curiosity, peer influence, parental smoking, family conflicts, and romantic relationship problems were identified as primary initiators of smoking behavior. Smoking was viewed as a self-determined practice shaped by the individual’s personal interpretation. Furthermore, societal stigma toward female smokers played a significant role in constructing the meaning and self-perception of adolescent female smokers. For these participants, smoking symbolized both loyalty and a means of achieving autonomy and happiness.
Conclusion: Given that women are at greater health risk from smoking compared to men, prevention programs should be designed to address adolescents’ perceptions and attitudes toward smoking in relation to both health and social dimensions. Incorporating these perspectives can strengthen the effectiveness of health interventions targeting female adolescents.