Peer Pressure

Just something about peer pressure and how to handle it.

Peer Pressure

Have you ever been pressured to do something by a group of people you thought were cool, or that you really wanted to fit in with? Are you being pressured now? Do you want to know more about peer pressure and how to deal with it?

 

What have you been pressured to do in the past? What do you think you’ll be pressured to do in the future? Giving in to peer pressure is not always dangerous, depending on what kind of peer pressure is being pushed upon you. If it is positive peer pressure, then you might be pressured to get good grades and make wise choices. We all make mistakes, and it’s okay. But it’s important to know how to make wise decisions. Peer pressure affects adolescents, teens, and even adults. If someone gives in to peer pressure, they may have a lack of self esteem for going against their personal beliefs. When peers or even adults are trying to pressure you to do something, they might tell you, “Come on, it’s cool!” or “Just once won’t kill you.”, when the reality is, it can.

 

People experience peer pressure every day, and sometimes don’t even notice it. Different things that are common for teens to be pressured to do are; trying drugs, drinking alcohol, trying smoking, vandalism, theft, or breaking other laws. Many people think that pressure comes from mostly peers. But adults, especially parents, are the biggest influences in a teenager’s life. Do you remember when you were little and your parents were your role models? They influenced you and different habits and traits you may have picked up are probably still with you.

 

 Repeatedly giving in to peer pressure often damages sense of self and causes emotional damage; it also makes the person believe that they can’t make wise choices with anything. Accepting  peer pressure can lead to smoking, drug use, alcohol abuse, sexual behavior, and even a criminal record if you are caught breaking the law.

People give in to peer pressure because they want to avoid feeling embarrassed, or left out. Sometimes they feel the need to fit in, and think the only way to do that is if they give in to pressure.

 

If you are being pressured or you have been before, talk to someone about it. People say this a lot, but it really does help. Calling the Kids Help Phone line (1-800-668-6868)