Family and Peer Influences on Nicotine Dependence in Medical Students of South Punjab

The goal of this cross-sectional observational study is to assess the impact of family functioning and peer pressure on nicotine dependence in medical students enrolled at medical colleges in South Punjab, Pakistan (both male and female; aged 18 and older). The main questions it aims to answer are: Does family dysfunction contribute to higher nicotine dependence in medical students? Does peer pressure intensify the effect of family dysfunction on nicotine dependence? Are there gender or academic year differences in smoking status and peer pressure? If there is a comparison group: Researchers will compare students from functional families vs. dysfunctional families to see if nicotine dependence differs, especially under the influence of peer pressure. Participants will: Complete a structured, self-administered questionnaire which includes: The Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) to assess nicotine addiction severity. The Family Assessment Device-General Functioning (FAD-GF) to evaluate family functioning. The Peer Pressure Scale to identify direct and indirect peer pressure. Provide demographic information (age, gender, year of study, smoking status) for descriptive and comparative analyses.