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Korean Why Are People Addicted? German Study Reveals the Top 4 Core Elements of E-liquid Vape User Choices
Industry success hinges not only on technological innovation but also on a deep understanding of users.
Recently, a study published in the “Journal of Medical Internet Research” by German scholars has uncovered the 4 major core elements behind vaporizer addiction in Germany. These elements are not only the fundamental reasons for users to choose e-liquid vape but also key to vape brands in product innovation and balancing user benefits with public health.
Research Background
Table of Contents
The study was conducted by researchers from the Heidelberg University Mannheim Medical Faculty, Cologne University Medical Faculty in Germany, and several other institutions. The background of the study is that nicotine-containing e-liquid vapes have been proven addictive, but the factors beyond nicotine are not clear.
The research method included analyzing three German vape forums, incorporating 451 previously coded posts to study the association between addiction experiences and e-cigarette characteristics. It also involved focus group discussions with 14 users in five groups, analyzing addiction experiences based on relevant standards. The data from both studies was then triangulated, including deductive and inductive analysis (identifying new features), and the data was content-analyzed to determine the four unique characteristics related to vape addiction.
The 4 Key Addiction Factors of E-liquid Vape
In this study, three specific e-liquid vape addiction characteristics were also observed in German e-cigarette online forums. Pleasurable taste, unobtrusiveness, and unlimited usability are points of discussion related to addiction symptoms among forum members, which are similar to the results of focus group discussions with e-liquid vaporizer users. Additionally, the study identified an extra unique e-cigarette characteristic related to juicy bar vape addiction: nicotine dosage. Summarized, they include:
Pleasant Taste: The agreeable flavor of e-liquid is frequently mentioned by users in relation to addiction. For example, users write about their favorite liquids or which liquid they prefer in certain situations. Many users emphasize that taste is their favorite aspect of e-liquid vape, with sweet flavors being considered addictive. A typical user description is as follows: “Taste – the holy grail of vaping!”
Unobtrusiveness: The odorless vapor and lack of waste (like ash) make vapes more convenient to use in public places, which is considered one of the reasons for addiction and increased usage frequency.
Unlimited Usability: Users mention that the long-term use of vaporizers is one of the reasons for continuous vaping and cravings. Devices with long battery life and large tank capacity meet the need for continuous use.
Nicotine Dosage: Nicotine dosage is another characteristic related to vape addiction, with users able to choose different nicotine concentrations based on their needs and preferences.
Pleasurable Taste
Pleasurable taste is the first element that leads users to depend on e-cigarettes. According to the study, the pleasant taste of e-cigarette liquids is the most frequently discussed feature related to addiction among German users.
Discreet Usage
The discreet and portable nature of e-cigarettes makes them an indispensable part of users’ daily lives. The study points out that vape pod mod are convenient to use in public places as they produce odorless vapor and no waste, which is often compared to traditional cigarettes and considered a reason for increased usage frequency.
Unlimited Usability
The battery life and tank capacity of vapes determine their durability. The study shows that users prefer devices that can be used for extended periods. German vape users mention the possibility of long-term use as a reason for continuous vaping and cravings.
Nicotine Dosage
In addition to the three major elements, the study also found that nicotine dosage is an important factor related to vape addiction. There are four different types of users often discussed in forums regarding the choice of specific nicotine dosages or mixing their own liquids.
Addictiveness may have made e-cigarettes successful, but it has also brought controversy to the industry. The research reveals that pleasant taste, unobtrusiveness, unlimited usability, and nicotine dosage are factors that make up the complex portrait of e-liquid vaporizer user addiction. The addictive nature of vape is a double-edged sword.
The vape industry should focus on improving product appeal while reducing potential health risks from misuse, such as exploring new nicotine delivery technologies that ensure user satisfaction while minimizing harm.
At the same time, it is crucial to engage with regulatory authorities and actively comply with industry standards and policy requirements to ensure the healthy and sustainable development of the entire vape mod industry while leveraging the advantages of these addictive elements.
