Abstract: Objective To investigate the factors influencing high school students'smoking-attempt behaviors based on problem behavior theory. Methods The Adolescent Health and Development Questionnaire,which was developed by the proponent of problem behavior theory,was used in the investigation.Students from three high schools in a district of Beijing were selected as research subjects with convenient sampling. Results The rate of smoking-attempt among the 1 352 students was 26.6%(35.5% for boys,18.4% for girls).Compared to the students without smoking-attempt behavior,the students with smoking-attempt had significant lower scores in self-control(3.05±0.80),smoking-related peer control(3.35±0.72),and family control(3.09±0.96).Self-control,peers health behavior models,smoking-related control from peers and family,general family control,and general school support were protective factors for the reduction of smoking-attempt among the students;peer smoking model,community smoking model,easy availability of cigarette,and deviant behavior were risk factors for high school students' smoking-attempt. Conclusion High school students' smoking-attempt behavior could be partially explained by problem behavior theory.