Introduction: Vaping has become a pressing public health issue among young adults, yet qualitative evidence on cessation strategies remains limited. The Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of health behavior change offers a framework to understand initiation and sustenance of quitting behavior. This case study explored the lived experiences of a young adult in vaping cessation, applying MTM constructs to identify facilitators and barriers relevant for health promotion interventions. Methods: A hermeneutic phenomenological case study was conducted with a 23-year-old Asian American male, living in a southwestern state in the United States. A structured, fifty-minute duration, in-depth interview was facilitated. Data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using directed content analysis grounded in MTM. Trustworthiness was ensured through reflexivity, member checking, triangulation, and an audit trail. Results: The participant, who began vaping at age 16, successfully quit after three failed attempts. Analysis produced 39 codes across 11 themes aligned with MTM constructs. For initiation, participatory dialogue highlighted more perceived advantages (e.g., improved appetite, reduced irritability) than disadvantages (e.g., stress management challenges). Behavioral confidence was reinforced by self-reflection and observing others, while environmental modifications such as avoiding vape shops supported cessation. Sustenance constructs included emotional transformation, self-practice strategies (e.g., mimicking vaping motions), and strong family and social support. The participant emphasized stress management, healthy coping mechanisms, and a preference for face-to-face cessation programs. Conclusion: MTM provides a valuable framework for understanding vaping cessation among young adults. Interventions should strengthen self-efficacy, build confidence, and incorporate familial/social support to enhance sustained cessation. Tailored health promotion strategies are needed to address psychosocial and environmental factors.
Awan et al. (Sun,) studied this question.