Objective: Decades of research into smoking cessation have created a plethora of knowledge yet quit rates continue to be low and relapse rates high. In order to better understand this complex behaviour, this paper examines incentives and barriers to smoking cessation for a high risk group. Methods: The successful and unsuccessful quitting experiences of twenty-five blue collar males with pregnant partners were examined using semi-structured interviews. Results: Indicators which differentiated between successful and unsuccessful quitters were awareness, approach to quitting and whether the participants had a cultural or direct relationship with smoking. Conclusions: This study provides insights that give direction for both new approaches to tailoring smoking cessation programmes and further research. (Contains 1 figure.)