Understanding how emotional distress affects cigarette smoking behavior

A Multi-Method Study of Momentary Distress Intolerance and Combustible Cigarette Smoking

NIH-funded research Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10864701

This study is looking at how feelings like anxiety and depression can affect smoking habits in adults, especially how struggling to handle tough emotions might make it harder to quit smoking, so we can find better ways to help those who are trying to stop.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Piscataway, United States)
Project IDNIH-10864701 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between emotional distress, such as anxiety and depression, and cigarette smoking among adults. It aims to explore how distress intolerance, or the inability to cope with negative emotions, influences smoking behavior on a moment-to-moment basis. The study will utilize a multi-method approach, including qualitative investigations, to gather insights into the factors that affect smoking cessation efforts for individuals experiencing emotional distress. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to improve smoking cessation strategies tailored for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who smoke cigarettes and experience co-occurring emotional distress.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or do not experience emotional distress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective smoking cessation programs for individuals struggling with emotional distress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding emotional factors can improve smoking cessation efforts, but this approach to distress intolerance is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Piscataway, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.