The Relationship among Decision-making, Interoceptive Awareness and Accuracy, Sensation-Seeking and Smoking Behaviour

Smoking has been found to be influenced by cognitive, psychological, and behavioural factors. Despite its known risks, smoking is still a widely concerning behaviour which highlights the need to explore the underlying cognitive and behavioural mechanisms. This study explores the relationship between interoception (awareness and accuracy), decision-making, sensation-seeking, and smoking behaviour. Using a mixed-methods approach, we analysed data from 20 participants. Results indicate that impaired decision-making and high disinhibition (sensation-seeking subscale) are linked to increased smoking, while interoceptive awareness and accuracy did not significantly correlate with smoking behaviour. Gender differences were seen, with males showing greater interoceptive awareness and females scoring higher on disinhibition. These findings provide insight into cognitive and behavioural patterns that influence smoking. This may contribute to future comprehensives studies and development of intervention to promote healthy habits.