We often don’t want to be the odd one out, so we give in when pressured by a group. Remember that there will always be someone who would be willing to support us, even if they are not physically present in that moment. They may be schoolmates, teachers, colleagues, supervisors, or religious leaders. They could even be random strangers who stand up for what is right. If you are unsure of how to even bring up the topic, professional therapy can bridge the gap by offering a safe and confidential space for you to share your concerns. Peer pressure can influence a person’s decision-making skills and significantly impact their mental and physical health.
Learn strategies that can help you handle negative peer pressure.
Tell your child they can blame you if they need to get out of a bad situation. Give your child a special code word to say or text you if they can’t get out of a situation on their own. In rare instances, some teens pressure other teens to commit suicide. Direct peer pressure can be either spoken or unspoken and is typically based on behaviours. An individual finds themselves having to make a decision on the spot, based on what has been presented to them. One example is when someone is handed a cigarette, even though they do not smoke.
- Better yet if you can spend more time with individuals who foster positive behaviours!
- Older teens and young adults may be peer pressured to engage in harmful activities like drinking alcohol, smoking, or reckless driving.
- An individual finds themselves having to make a decision on the spot, based on what has been presented to them.
- Even now, I can still recall times when I was so desperate to be more like my peers.
- Positive peer pressure manifests through peers motivating each other towards helpful, healthy choices.
How to stay true to yourself when experiencing peer pressure
The fear of being labeled as uncool, boring, or unpopular can push individuals to engage in behaviours that compromise their health and well-being. Research has long shown peer pressure can increase the risk someone will try drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes. Some people are more how to deal with peer pressure affected by peer pressure than others, just as some people are more likely to experience addiction than others. While some people may experiment with alcohol or drugs once or twice and decide it’s not for them, others who begin using a substance may find it difficult to quit.
Drugs and alcohol
- As a parent, you can help your child deal with peer pressure and make good choices at every age and stage.
- In some cases, people may continue using the substance as part of social activity, such as drinking at parties or smoking because everyone else is taking a smoke break.
- Peer pressure is the process by which members of the same social group influence other members to do things that they may be resistant to, or might not otherwise choose to do.
- Learn how to resist peer pressure and live according to your own values.
- We often don’t want to be the odd one out, so we give in when pressured by a group.
We’ve got tips and info to help you out in these tricky situations. Assuming that it is safe to do so, you may let the affected individual know that they are not alone. You may offer support by asking them how you could be of assistance. Alternatively, you may support them by offering a nonjudgmental listening ear.
I wanted to share some of the lessons I have learnt along the way, hoping that you might use these tips if you ever feel this way yourself. Studies have shown that adolescents are especially affected by peer pressure. However, it can affect anyone from young children to elderly. If peer pressure has negatively impacted your life, a therapist can offer compassionate and confidential help. Though peer pressure is often thought of as something that happens primarily during adolescence, research suggests peer pressure begins in elementary school, often around the age of 9.
- Politely decline invitations that involve the temptation to cross your boundaries.
- For instance, friends might encourage each other to study hard, avoid substances, stick up to bullies, or give back through community service.
- For example, ask yourself – do certain friends bring out my best self?
- In the case of teens, parents are rarely concerned about the peer pressure their kids may face to engage in sports or exercise, as these are typically seen as healthy social behaviors.
- However you’re feeling, there are people who can help you if you are struggling.
However, peer pressure can also be positive and encourage better academic performance and healthy habits. 80% of teenagers got into the habit of smoking due to negative peer influence, and 75% of teenagers have tried alcohol due to the same reason. When a person compares themselves to others and wants what others have, that can be a sign of peer pressure. Examples include trying to look or dress a certain way and wanting to purchase only specific designer brands. Social media and mainstream media may also have a role to play in shaping what the “ideal” look or body is. Constantly comparing oneself to others may have the unintended consequence of increasing self-consciousness, dissatisfaction and anxiety.
There may be a day when your child makes a bad choice because of peer pressure. Discipline your child, but also know it’s a good opportunity to teach your child about choices and having the courage to say no. Talk out any peer pressure you’re experiencing with other friends who are also feeling the squeeze. To deal with peer pressure, try to identify when you are experiencing it, as this pressure can often be very subtle. Therapy can teach you how to say no, set boundaries, and respect your own values to protect yourself from negative influences.
- When they are in preschool, tell them not to copy silly or bad behavior.
- While some people may experiment with alcohol or drugs once or twice and decide it’s not for them, others who begin using a substance may find it difficult to quit.
- Self-regulation involves the ability to control thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to manage current behavior and achieve long-term goals.
- Keeping track of all your achievements with the MyDrinkaware app is also a great way to stay motivated and help you meet your goals.
Many people consider peer pressure a negative thing, but this isn’t always the case. People, especially teens and young adults, may be more likely to do prosocial behaviors when they see people their own age doing the same things. For example, research has shown that teens with friends who volunteer are more likely to volunteer themselves.
