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.