Imagine this, you are walking in the school corridors with a few of your friends when someone mentions the idea of skipping an academic lesson. Inwardly, you know that missing that lesson will result in you lagging in class and missing out on important content, but most importantly it will have its consequences if you get caught. Outwardly, as more and more of your friends begin to agree with the plan, to avoid debating the issue or the urge of fitting in results in you going along with the crowd.

This situation is what’s better known as peer pressure, or more accurately known as peer influence or social influence. As a teenager, you have probably in some way or another maybe even without realization, faced peer pressure in a number of different areas, such as the clothes you wear or even the music you listen to. To face this negative kind of pressure, many strategies can be used to prevent it. For instance;

1. Pay attention to how you feel

• If something doesn’t feel right about a situation, you don’t need to go through with it, because the consequences may not fit right with you.
• Plan and think about where the consequence may lead you. This will help you plan on what you can say or what you can do during the present situation.

2. Give an excuse

• Peer pressure often occurs because of the fear of saying “no”, but it should be okay to say without having to apologize or give a reason.
• Keep a reason ready for any situation that may arise, be it a medical excuse, or even calling up your parents if you feel that it would be best to leave the situation altogether.

3. Search for positive influence

• The term “peer pressure” often indicates a negative pressure, although peer influence can also be in a positive form, be it a pressure to participate more or learning a new skill.
• Look for a peer group that will help you learn new skills, and maybe pressurize you in the right direction that may just result in better performance from your end in your institution.

4. Get support

• Always have someone in the loop in any situation that may turn into something dangerous. Be it your parents, your teacher or any trusted adult.
• Having someone to support you through a situation may just be the best solution to avoid any issue that may be pressurizing you.

Credit:

This blog has been contributed by Nandini Sarin, a class 9 student of Pathways World School Aravali, interning with PPRO EED.