Current models of nicotine dependence: what is known and what is needed toadvance understanding of tobacco etiology among youth

Youth smoking has risen dramatically during the last 5 years, leading one t o the conclusion that prevention interventions have not been particularly e ffective. This paper provides an examination of features that define adult nicotine dependence and argues that these features need to be considered in any studied examination of youth etiology and development to nicotine depe ndence. We review the historical context for the concept of nicotine depend ence, features that define the concept and current models of substance depe ndence more generally. Recommendations for future research are provided. (C ) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.