The rate of reported teen smoking is dropping. 20 percent of teenagers reported that they smoked in 2007 which dropped by 45 percent from 36.4 percent in 2007. This could actually be the truth or the teens may just be reporting it.  What are the reason for teen smokers? Why do they do it? How does it make them feel? Do their parents know? Many questions arise when the issue of teen smoking is being discussed.

                “I started smoking like 6 months ago. I smoke because my job stresses me out. I buy them sometimes and if I don’t then my friends do. My parents do know that I smoke, but it does not affect any of my relationships. I would still smoke if cigarettes went up a dollar, I would just go for the cheap brand,” an anonymous student said. 

                “I’m eighteen and I smoke cigarettes,” said G.W. Burchet, 12. “I smoke because I’m addicted. I have been smoking for two years and my parents know. Smoking does not affect any of my relationships; my girlfriend smokes. I do not care how high the price goes I will still smoke because I am addicted,” said Burchett.

                Many people say they smoke because it relieves stress. The truth is it relieves stress temporarily but in the future nicotine can cause your blood pressure to rise and can aggravate stress. One cigarette contains 4,000 poisonous chemicals that can cause life threaten diseases.