Smoking outcome expectancies: factor structure, predictive validity, and discriminant validity

Use of the Smoking Consequences Questionnaire of Brandon and Baker in a confirmatory factor analysis of smoking outcome expectancies among 632 smokers showed that the best fit was obtained with four factors interpreted as negative consequences, positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement and appetite-weight control. The study collected data from smokers participating in trials of the effectiveness of a nicotine skin patch in aiding stoppage. Smokers who had negative consequences and reinforcement expectations were more likely to quit, and those with positive expectancies displayed greater withdrawal effects.