Peer Pressure

Peer pressure can be difficult for a child. Peer pressure is when a person does something they normally would not do in order to fit into or impress a group.A peer group is usually made up of individuals of approximately the same age and interests and teens look to peer groups to set rules for correct social behaviour. Many behave in ways the group approves of in order to feel they belong.

Adolescence and Peer Pressure

Teens look at peer groups to set rules for correct social behaviour

Many behave in ways the group approves to feel they belong

Positive Peer Pressure

When you are being pushed into something positive that you didn't have the courage to do

When your friends convince you not to do something because it wasn't in your best interest

Benefits

• Helps you overcome fear
• Provides motivation and confidence
• Encourages socializing and provides good advice
• Avoids breaking the law, getting into trouble with parents, and hurting your health

Negative Peer Pressure

• Being talked into something bad that you didn't want to do
• Wanting to be accepted by your peers is usually the cause

Consequences

• Causes trouble with the law
• Affects your health 
• Causes low self-esteem

Negative peer pressure can have negative consequences such as:

• Drugs 
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Bullying 
• Fighting

Ways to Deal with Peer Pressure

• Self-confidence is the key!
• Be yourself
• Listen to your gut
• Learn to say NO
• Leave
• Ignore
• Choose your friends wisely
• Stay away from peers who pressure you to do things that you know are wrong
• Be with people who feel the same way as you do
• If the situation seems dangerous, ask for help
• Help a friend who is resisting peer pressure

Resources

Peer Pressure Pamphlet English

Peer Pressure Pamphlet French

Teen Peer Pressure