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Though peer pressure is not usually used to describe socially desirable behaviors, such as exercising or studying, peer pressure can have positive effects in some cases. Usually, the term peer pressure is used when people are https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/binge-drinking-how-to-stop-binge-drinking/ talking about behaviors that are not considered socially acceptable or desirable, such as experimentation with alcohol or drugs. Peers can be your friends who are about your age and have similar interests and experiences.
Giving in to peer pressure can have negative consequences, both in the short term and long term. It may result in compromising our personal values and goals, leading to dissatisfaction and regret. Moreover, succumbing to peer pressure can contribute to a lack of authenticity in our relationships and hinder personal growth and self-discovery. Honesty goes a long way in reducing the harmful effects of peer pressure.
Dealing With Peer Pressure
It can lead to feelings of self-doubt, insecurity, and a loss of personal identity. It can create anxiety and stress as we grapple with the pressure to conform to societal or group expectations. The fear of judgment and rejection can be particularly challenging to overcome, affecting our mental well-being and overall quality of life.
- Extended family, teachers, counselors, clergy, and coaches are also good resources.
- Comment on what you notice and ask your teen to consider how the kids you pass should handle a given situation.
- Observe and take note of naturally occurring chances to talk about the topic.
However, both boys and girls are also receptive to peer pressure across a huge spectrum of behaviors and beliefs, such as what to wear, how to act, and what behavior is acceptable. It is so important to have friends with similar beliefs and values. If you choose friends who push you to be better, encourage and support you, and respect your boundaries, your life will be much easier! It can really help to have at least one other peer who is willing to say “No,” too.
Effective Ways to Avoid Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is a genuine concern for millions of Americans. It can lead to poor decisions and impact relaxation and sleep, among other things. If you or someone you love is facing negative peer pressure and are using substances habitually, it may be time to seek which of the following is a type of indirect peer pressure? outside help. Though peer pressure is a common part of growing up, it doesn’t end there. Adults are just as exposed to this as much as children and adolescents are. As a child or a youth, you face peer influence from your classmates, cousins, and friends.
Self-worth empowers us to prioritize our needs and make choices that are true to who we are. The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) nonprofit website, Wonderopolis, expresses the importance of good peers. An article they published states that good friends should be loyal and accepting of who you are. Unfortunately, not everyone is a good friend, nor does everyone have good intentions. Consider who your friends are and if they’re truly capable of helping to inspire growth and good deeds.
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Peers can also be other kids who are about your age and are involved in the same activities with you or are part of a community or group you belong to. You may not consider all of your peers to be friends, but they can all influence you. Another investigation, completed in 2011, looked at the effect of peer pressure surrounding sexual activities in the youth surrounding US born Mexicans and Mexico born Mexicans.