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Peer Pressure

 

A feeling that one must do the same things as other people of one's age and social group in order to be liked, feel among, accepted or respected by peer.

Peer pressure can be a driving force in influencing decisions and habits, especially those related to alcohol and drugs. As substance abuse issues continue to soar nationwide, psychologists and drug treatment specialists continue to explore preventive care options. It means tackling the problem of peer pressure.

 

SIGNS

Peer pressure can range from subtle to overt, which means that some forms of peer pressure can be easier to spot than others. Being able to identify signs that your child is dealing with peer pressure may help you initiate a supportive conversation.

Avoiding school or other social situations

Being very image-conscious

Changes in behavior

Expressing feeling like they don't fit in

Low moods

Making social comparisons

Trying out clothes and hairstyle

Misbehaving and wanting to be rude, arrogant and saucy

Wanting to try out some new things like smoking, drinking and partying

 

We have different types of peer pressure

Positive, Negative, Outspoken, Spoken, Indirect/direct

 

HOW TO DEAL WITH PEER PRESSURE

It’s natural for people to identify with or compare themselves to their peers. Peer pressure is a force that nearly everyone has faced at some point. Through growth and a renewed sense of independence, young adults tend to question how they want to be and where they fit in among a social crowd. Peer pressure can sway decisions and outlooks, particularly in adolescents whose minds are still developing. While there are both positive and negative qualities of peer pressure, it’s essential to know how to handle social stress.

Dealing with peer pressure is a skill set developed over time. We are constantly influenced by the very people we consider friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. To some degree, even strangers can have an impact on our actions or opinions. Defining a game plan for difficult social interactions may help alleviate some of the stress associated with peer pressure.


PSYCHOLOGY OF PEER PRESSURE

There are various types of peer pressure – both good and bad. While the science of the mind is incredibly complex, one thing is certain: we are hardwired to place more value on how we interact within a social setting than when we are alone.

Thus, our mind may seek ways to gain peer support, even if those actions fail to align with our morals or values.

As a result of this built-in reward pathway, individuals may feel coerced into taking risky actions that they would otherwise avoid. However, science is discovering that there may be more at play within the brain that exposes us to specific influences.

 

LEARNING HOW TO DEAL WITH PEER PRESSURE

As we enter into adulthood, we may still occasionally be driven by reward-seeking behavior.  Individuals are also more capable of dealing with peer pressure with specific strategies and tactics.

Unfortunately, peer pressure is difficult to avoid. There will always be outside influences that motivate us to choose certain paths. What’s important is that we consider positive versus negative factors. Here are some tips on how to deal with peer pressure at any age:

1. WEIGH YOUR EMOTIONS IN THE DECISIONS YOU MAKE

The way we feel at any given moment is essential. When pressure is high, and we’re feeling particularly vulnerable, we may decide on the easy choice. However, the end result can be catastrophic. Avoid peers that can cause self-doubt, lack of self-confidence, and who may disregard your feelings completely.

2. FIND POSITIVE INFLUENCES

At any age, it’s a great idea to stay involved with extracurricular activities like sports, music, art, or other hobbies. Team building activities can help increase self-confidence and create a support system that allows an individual to flourish.

3. PLAN AHEAD

Experiencing peer pressure, especially when in a hostile environment, can cause a person to panic. To mitigate the risk of impulsive decision making when under pressure, it’s best to have a plan that can help map out a response. Think of different scenarios that spark discomfort and think about how to deal with peer pressure. What is a good response? Are there alternative methods of saying no? It’s ok to give excuses to avoid making decisions that you may feel are not right for you.

 

4. CONVEY FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS

Honesty goes a long way in reducing the harmful effects of peer pressure. Speak to the person or group of people who may be causing feelings of unease or uncertainty. Explain why their actions are impactful and kindly ask them to stop. It’s okay to distance yourself from people and groups that are not serving you in a positive aspect.

 

5. TALK TO A TRUSTED RESOURCE

Positive influences, usually parents or siblings, can teach you how to deal with peer pressure directly. Having a trusted friend, family member, or another resource to call on can alleviate some of the everyday life stresses. They can be there to give advice or just support the decisions you’ve made that you feel are right for you. Facing peer pressure alone can be isolating and overwhelming. Creating a group that you can turn to can make a world of difference when dealing with peer pressure.

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