Enforcing a tobacco-free campus through an ambassador-based program: a phenomenology.

OBJECTIVE

This phenomenology explored the experiences of those involved in a campus-based Ambassador program that enforced a tobacco-free policy at a public university in Montana.

PARTICIPANTS

During the program's initial implementation (spring 2014), researchers observed and interviewed 21 Ambassadors and 19 policy violators.

METHODS

Researchers observed and recorded field notes of Ambassadors promoting the policy to the campus community and interacting with policy violators. Researchers invited Ambassadors and violators to be interviewed regarding their experiences with the program.

RESULTS

Although Ambassadors enjoyed promoting the policy and sensed an increase in recognition by others, they also felt uncomfortable and had mixed feelings regarding their level of authority. Violators also felt uncomfortable, yet the majority described the experience with the program as positive.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from the study can be used to inform those considering the implementation of an Ambassador program on their campus.