Understanding how emotional distress affects cigarette smoking behavior
Official title: A Multi-Method Study of Momentary Distress Intolerance and Combustible Cigarette Smoking
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10864701 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $233,913 |
| NIH project number | 1K23DA060293-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10864701 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who smoke cigarettes and experience co-occurring emotional distress.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not smoke or do not experience emotional distress may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Altman, Brianna Rose — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Altman, Brianna Rose
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.