This study determined the prevalence and patterns of smokeless tobacco use in a sample of preservice educators at a southern university, and identified factors associated with initiation and reinforcement of the activity. A 26-item survey was completed by 174 persons enrolled in a course required for completion of the teacher education program. Results indicated that 23.3 percent of the male respondents, but none of the female respondents reported current use of smokeless tobacco. Among users, 55.0 percent used it nearly every day. Most users (60.0 percent) "dipped" or "chewed" 4-7 times per day. The factor most often cited for initiation of use was the influence of a friend. Both users and nonusers were unable to identify the health effects associated with smokeless tobacco. It is concluded that a significant number of male preservice teachers in this geographic area use smokeless tobacco. Ignorance in this group about the health effects of smokeless tobacco is notable. These data suggest that some persons in the field of education have succumbed to the wave of popularity that smokeless tobacco enjoys in parts of the United States. The influence that these future educators could have on acceptance of smokeless tobacco use by younger audiences as a viable recreational activity may have practical significance for the college health educator. (Author)