How to evaluate a program aiming at investigating social determinants of youth cigarette use over time?

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When evaluating a program aiming to investigate the social determinants of youth cigarette use over time, consider the following five points:

Clearly define program objectives: Clearly articulate the objectives of the program evaluation, specifying the desired outcomes related to understanding the social determinants of youth cigarette use over time. Determine the specific social determinants that you aim to investigate, such as peer influence, family dynamics, socioeconomic status, or advertising exposure.

Design a longitudinal study: Develop a longitudinal study design to assess youth cigarette use and its social determinants over time. Longitudinal studies involve collecting data from the same individuals at multiple time points, allowing for the examination of changes and trends over an extended period. This design enables the exploration of causal relationships and the identification of temporal associations between social determinants and cigarette use.

Select appropriate measurement tools: Choose reliable and validated measurement tools to assess youth cigarette use and social determinants. Consider utilizing standardized surveys or questionnaires that capture relevant information about cigarette use behaviors, social influences, family dynamics, socioeconomic factors, and exposure to tobacco-related marketing.

Recruit participants and collect data.: Recruit a diverse sample of young individuals to participate in the program evaluation. Collect baseline data on participants' demographic characteristics, social determinants, and cigarette use behaviors. Implement follow-up assessments at regular intervals to track changes in cigarette use and the social determinants under investigation. Collect both quantitative data through surveys and qualitative data through interviews or focus groups to gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationships between social determinants and cigarette use.

Analyze and interpret data.: Analyze the collected data to evaluate the relationships between social determinants and youth cigarette use over time. Use statistical methods such as regression analysis, longitudinal data analysis, or growth curve modeling to examine the associations between social determinants and changes in cigarette use behaviors.