Vladimir Skavysh, a child psychiatrist at JSC Medicina, an academic Roitberg clinic, spoke in a RIAMO interview about how parents can respond when a teenager begins smoking. The focus of his guidance centers on open, honest dialogue tailored to uncover the teenager’s underlying motives, rather than punishment or scolding. This approach emphasizes a respectful conversation that seeks to understand the child’s perspective and the social factors shaping their behavior (Source: RIAMO).
The core recommendation from Skavysh is simple: ask a direct, nonjudgmental question such as, “Why are you smoking?” The aim is to diagnose the reasons behind the smoking habit by encouraging the teen to share their thoughts and pressures. In Skavysh’s view, a dialogue with confidentiality is essential, and adults should avoid shouting, corporal punishment, or moralizing lessons. The emphasis is on trust, listening, and guided exploration of the teenager’s daily environment and influences (Source: RIAMO).
Skavysh notes that the social environment can play a critical role in the development of smoking habits. Peer groups, family attitudes, and available access to tobacco products or vaping devices often shape a teen’s choices. Because these factors matter, he advocates addressing them directly through conversation and supportive strategies. The proposed path to cessation mirrors the path to prevention: engaging leisure activities, strong educational involvement, and meaningful creative pursuits. Additionally, changing the surrounding environment to reduce exposure to triggers and cues is highlighted as a practical measure. The goal is to create a supportive climate where the teen feels heard and gradually adopts healthier alternatives (Source: RIAMO).
Regarding quitting strategies, Skavysh aligns with a broad consensus in pediatric health that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. He stresses that the most effective interventions combine human connection with accessible, age-appropriate resources. Physical activity, structured hobbies, and social support networks can reduce reliance on nicotine, while recognizing that each teenager’s situation is unique. In his framework, these elements work together to reinforce positive behavior and to provide the teen with constructive channels for stress relief and self-expression. The conversation itself becomes part of the treatment plan, reinforcing accountability while preserving the teen’s autonomy and dignity (Source: RIAMO).
Beyond individual advice, educational and public health perspectives have long debated the durability of certain cessation programs. Some studies have questioned the long-term value of physical activity programs and motivational support when used in isolation. A recent report from researchers at the University of Plymouth, published in Addiction, examined whether such interventions yield lasting benefits for smokers. The findings suggest that while these programs can help in the short term, their long-term impact may depend on integrating them within a broader, multifaceted strategy that includes family engagement, school or workplace support, and ongoing follow-up. This nuance underscores the importance of personalized, sustainable plans rather than quick fixes (Source: Addiction; University of Plymouth study cited in RIAMO).
Taken together, the guidance emphasizes calm, curious, and persistent parental engagement. The aim is to help teenagers reflect on their choices, understand the consequences, and discover healthier ways to manage social pressures and stress. By combining empathetic conversation with practical steps—reducing exposure to triggers, increasing constructive activities, and leveraging supportive networks—parents can support teens on the path to choosing healthier habits over nicotine. The overall message remains: speak with the teen, listen deeply, and collaborate on a plan that respects their perspective while guiding them toward durable change (Source: RIAMO).