This study offers valuable insight into how identity shapes health behaviours during the preconception and prenatal periods, particularly for women who smoke. Researchers explored how pregnant and pre-pregnant women understood themselves as smokers, non-smokers, and mothers, and how those identities interacted during a smoking cessation intervention. The findings highlight that identity is more than a set of habits; it is deeply connected to a person’s sense of self, belonging, and future aspirations.
Women who felt a strong connection to being a mother were also more likely to feel aligned with non-smokers, suggesting that motherhood can be a powerful entry point for conversations about healthier choices. The study also showed that asking women to imagine their ideal future selves, often associated with themes like freedom, pride, health, and motherhood, created space for honest dialogue without shame or judgment. This aligns with trauma-aware, strengths-based approaches that recognize the role of identity, relationships, and meaningful change.
Reflection for Prevention Conversation Facilitators
For FASD Prevention Conversation Facilitators, this research reinforces something central to our work: meaningful behaviour change doesn’t begin with information; it begins with identity, connection, and safety. Many women already know the risks tied to smoking or alcohol use, but information alone rarely shifts long-standing coping strategies or social identities.
What this study shows is that change becomes more possible when conversations tap into who a person believes they are, and who they hope to become. When women were invited to explore their identities without judgment, they opened up about stress, coping, motherhood, and the emotional reasons behind smoking. This mirrors the relational approach we use every day, meeting people where they are, and honouring their lived experience.