JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Youth vaping has become a significant public health concern, with high rates of initiation, nicotine dependence and misperceptions of harm. Although many youth attempt to quit, most do so without formal support, and few report leveraging cessation apps. Mobile health tools have potential as accessible youth-orientated supports, yet little is known about youth experiences with these interventions.

Objective:

This study explored Canadian youth’s perceptions and experiences of vaping cessation mobile applications, focusing on preferences, perceived utility and recommendations for improvement.

Methods:

A Qualitative Descriptive design guided by a constructivist paradigm was employed. Seventeen semi-structured interviews were conducted with youth aged 16-24 years from British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec in fall 2022. Eligible participants had current or past vaping experience, had attempted or wanted to quit, and had used a cessation app. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed inductively using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, with reflexivity supported through team-based coding and iterative discussions.

Results:

Three themes described youth’s experiences. Quitting on my Own Terms reflected the importance of autonomy and intrinsic motivation, with varied views as to where app use conflicted with or supported independent cessation. Parallel Experiences- Differing Views on Community, captured ambivalence toward in-app social features: while some valued peer support, others preferred to quit privately or used broader online platforms. Pocket-sized Partners in Cessation highlighted the usefulness of features such as progress tracking, motivational reinforcement and gamification but participants stressed that convenience also was not enough. Youth emphasized the need for apps that feel authentic, emotionally resonate, and capable of balancing independence with opportunities for connection.

Conclusions:

Youth want cessation apps that function as pocket-sized partners rather than passive trackers. Effective interventions should validate autonomy, account for non-linear cessation journeys and relapses, and integrate supportive, interactive, and youth-friendly features. By addressing equity, sustainability, and integration into broader public health systems, digital cessation tools may better support youth in their quitting journeys.