Peer Pressure

No matter how old they are, people care what others think and want to fit in. When you are just starting to think for yourself, the influence of your friends and people your age - your peers - can be powerful. It can affect how you feel, dress, and act. This is called “peer pressure.”

Peer pressure can be good or bad. Good pressure from your peers might lead you to play sports, study hard, or join clubs.

But there are often negative pressures too - to make fun of someone, to tell a lie, or to cheat on a test. Sometimes the pressure may be about actions that have more serious results like skipping school, using alcohol or drugs, shoplifting, or having sex before you’re married. It is important to think about what could happen if you go along with the crowd.

Make up your own mind, even if your peers don’t agree with you.

Young people have decisions to make every day. Some decisions are more important than others. There is a big difference between deciding what to wear to a party and deciding whether or not to have sex with someone. The decisions you make say a lot about what kind of person you are.

REMEMBER - YOU CAN MAKE YOUR OWN DECISIONS

It’s Okay To Say “No"

Some decisions, like those about drinking, drugs, or sex, are difficult to make and have serious consequences. Be prepared to feel pressure and be aware that there are different kinds of pressure. It can be disguised as friendly teasing.

Plan to say no if you think you might be tempted by peer pressure. Try these ways to say no:

• Change the subject
• Avoid the situation
• Have something else to do
• Leave
• Make it clear that you don’t have to go along with other people. Show them you have a mind of your own. When your peers see you stand by your good decisions, it may help them make better decisions in the future.

It’s Okay to Say “Yes”

It’s okay to say “yes” to many activities in your life. Your time as a young adult should be enjoyed. Say yes to:

• Positive friendships
• School studies
• School activities
• Volunteer opportunities
• Family relationships
• Setting goals in your life
• Taking positive steps to help yourself when in trouble

When you feel unsure, try talking to someone you trust - your parents, another adult who cares, or maybe a close friend you respect or call the Hopeline Crisis Hotline at 800-567-HOPE(4673)