Understanding how social media affects young adults' use of electronic nicotine delivery systems.

Examining the mediating and moderating factors in the relationships between social media engagement and ENDS use and dependence among young adults

NIH-funded research Texas Christian University · NIH-11043598

This study looks at how using social media affects young adults' use of e-cigarettes and aims to understand the thoughts and social influences that play a role in this relationship, so we can better shape policies and campaigns to help reduce e-cigarette use among this group.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas Christian University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Fort Worth, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043598 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how social media engagement influences the use and dependence on electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among young adults. It aims to identify cognitive factors that mediate the relationship between social media exposure and ENDS use, as well as the interpersonal factors that may moderate this relationship. By conducting longitudinal studies, the research seeks to provide insights that can inform policy-making and the design of anti-ENDS campaigns. Young adults, who are heavy social media users and more susceptible to advertising, will be the primary focus of this investigation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults who actively use social media and may be influenced by advertising related to electronic nicotine delivery systems.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use social media or are not engaged with electronic nicotine delivery systems may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective public health strategies to reduce ENDS use among young adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social media can significantly influence health behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Fort Worth, 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.
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.