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Essay on Peer Pressure: 100, 200, and 450 Word Samples in English

• Updated on  
• Mar 2, 2024

Have you ever done something just because your friends or peers have done it? Say, watched a movie or TV series, visited places, consumed any substance, or academic achievement. This is a classic example of peer pressure. It means you are influenced by your peers or people around you.

Peer pressure can be both positive and negative, but mostly, it has negative effects. Peer pressure often occurs during adolescence or teenage years when individuals are more susceptible to the opinions and actions of their peers. Sometimes, peer pressure can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, we must deal with peer pressure in a civilized and positive way. 

On this page, we will provide you with some samples of how to write an essay on peer pressure. Here are essay on peer pressure in 100, 200 and 450 words.

Table of Contents

• 1 Essay on Peer Pressure in 450 Words
• 2 Essay on Peer Pressure in 200 Words
• 3 Essay on Peer Pressure in 100 Words

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

Essay on Peer Pressure in 450 Words

‘Be true to who you are and proud of who you’re becoming. I have never met a critic who was doing better than me.’ – Jeff Moore

Why do we seek recognition? Why do we want to fit in? Why are we not accepting ourselves in just the way we are? The answer to these questions is almost the same; peer pressure. Peer pressure is the influence of our peers in such a way, that we wish and try to do things in the same way as others did. 

Negatives and Positive Peer Pressure

Peer pressure can have positive and negative effects. Positive peer pressure can result in better academic performance, personal growth and development, etc. We can be a source of inspiration to our friends or vice versa, which can result in better academic growth, adopting healthier lifestyles, and engaging in community service. For example, you are part of a group collaborating on a community project that demonstrates the constructive influence of peer interaction. This can encourage a sense of purpose and shared responsibility.

Negative Peer Pressure is the opposite of positive peer pressure. In such cases, we are influenced by the negative bad habits of our peers, which often result in disastrous consequences. Consider the scenario where one of your friends starts smoking simply to conform to the smoking habits of his peers, highlighting the potentially harmful consequences of succumbing to negative influences.

How to Deal With Peer Pressure?

Peer pressure can be dealt with in several ways. The first thing to do is to understand our own values and belief systems. Nobody wants to be controlled by others, and when we know what is important to us, it becomes easier to resist pressure that goes against our beliefs.

A person with self-esteem believes in his or her decisions. It creates a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. When you believe in yourself, you are more likely to make decisions based on your principles rather than succumbing to external influences.

Choosing your friends wisely can be another great way to avoid peer pressure. Positive peer influence can be a powerful tool against negative peer pressure.

Building the habit of saying ‘No’ and confidently facing pressure in uncomfortable situations can be a great way to resist peer pressure. So, it is important to assertively express your thoughts and feelings. 

Peer pressure can have different effects on our well-being. It can contribute to personal growth and development, and it can also negatively affect our mental and physical health. We can deal with peer pressure with the necessary skills, open communication, and a supportive environment. We must act and do things in responsible ways.

Also Read: Essay on Green Revolution in 100, 200 and 500 Words

Essay on Peer Pressure in 200 Words

‘A friend recently started smoking just because every guy in his class smokes, and when they hang out, he feels the pressure to conform and be accepted within the group. However, he is not aware of the potential health risks and personal consequences associated with the habit. 

This is one of the many negative examples of peer pressure. However, peer pressure can often take positive turns, resulting in better academic performance, and participation in social activities, and physical activities. 

Dealing with peer pressure requires a delicate balance and determination. Teenagers must have alternative positive options to resist negative influences. Developing a strong sense of self, understanding personal values, and building confidence are crucial components in navigating the challenges posed by peer pressure.

Learning to say ‘No’ assertively can be a great way to tackle peer pressure. You must understand your boundaries and be confident in your decisions. This way, you can resist pressure that contradicts your values. Also, having a plan in advance for potential pressure situations and seeking support from trusted friends or mentors can contribute to making informed and responsible choices.

‘It is our choice how we want to deal with peer pressure. We can make good and bad decisions, but in the end, we have to accept the fact that we were influenced by our peers and we were trying to fit in.’

Essay on Peer Pressure in 100 Words

‘Peer pressure refers to the influence of your peers. Peer pressure either be of positive or negative types. Positive peer pressure can encourage healthy habits like academic challenges, physical activities, or engaging in positive social activities. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead us to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or skipping school, to fit in with our peers.’

‘There are many ways in which we can deal with peer pressure. Everyone has their personal beliefs and values. Therefore, they must believe in themselves and should not let other things distract them. When we are confident in ourselves, it becomes easier to stand up for what we believe in and make our own choices. Peer pressure can be dealt with by staying positive about yourself.’

Ans: ‘Peer pressure refers to the influence of your peers. Peer pressure either be of positive or negative types. Positive peer pressure can encourage healthy habits like academic challenges,, physical activities, or engaging in positive social activities. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead us to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or skipping school, to fit in with our peers.’

Ans: Peer pressure refers to the influence of our peers or people around us. 

Ans: Peer pressure can have both positive and negative effects on school children. It can boost academic performance, encourage participation in social activities, adopt healthier lifestyles, etc. However, peer pressure often results in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, unsafe activities, or other harmful behaviours.

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Peer Pressure Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on peer pressure.

Peer pressure can be both negative and positive. Because if a person is a peer pressuring you for a good cause then it is motivation. Motivation is essential for the growth of a person. While peer pressure for a bad cause will always lead you to a disastrous situation.

Therefore it necessary for a person to not get influenced by the people around them. They should analyze the outcome of the deed in a strict manner. So that they no may commit anything harmful for themselves. As this world is full of bad people, so you need to be careful before trusting anybody.

Advantages of Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is advantageous in many ways. Most importantly it creates a sense of motivation in the person. Which further forces the person to cross the barrier and achieve something great. Furthermore, it boosts the confidence of a person. Because our brain considers people’s opinions and makes them a priority.

Many salesmen and Entrepreneurs use this technique to influence people to buy their products. Whenever we are in a social meet we always get various recommendations. Therefore when a person gets these recommendations the brain already starts liking it. Or it creates a better image of that thing. This forces the person to buy the product or at least consider it.

This peer pressure technique also works in creating a better character of a person. For instance, when we recommend someone for a particular job, the interviewer already gets a better image of that person. Because he is recommended by a person the interviewer trusts. Therefore there is a great chance of that person to get hired.

Above all the main advantage of peer pressure can be in youth. If a young person gets influenced by an individual or a group of people. He can achieve greater heights in his career.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Disadvantages of Peer Pressure

There are various disadvantages of peer pressure which can harm a person in many ways. If any person is not willing to perform a task then the peer pressure can be frustrating to him.

Furthermore, peer pressure should not be in an excessive manner. Because it lands a negative impact on the person. A person should be of the mindset of listening to himself first. While considering opinions in favor of him.

Peer pressure in youth from a bad company can lead a person to a nasty situation. Furthermore, it can also hamper a student’s career and studies if not averted. Youth these days are much influenced by the glamorous life of celebrities.

And since they follow them so much, these people become their peers. Thus they do such things that they should not. Drugs and smoking are major examples of this. Moreover most shocking is that the minors are even doing these things. This can have adverse effects on their growth and career.

It is necessary to judge the outcome of a deed before getting influenced by peers. Furthermore, peer pressure should always be secondary. Your own thoughts and wants should always have the first priority.

Q1. What is peer pressure?

A1 . Peer pressure is the influence on people by their peers. As a result, people start following their opinions and lifestyle. Furthermore, it is considering a person or his opinion above all and giving him the priority.

Q2. Which sector of the society is the peer pressure adversely affecting?

A2 . Peer pressure has adverse effects on the youth of society. Some false influencers are playing with the minds of the youngsters. As a result, the youth is going in the wrong direction and ruining their career opportunities.

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The Effects of Peer Pressure on Students, Essay Example

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There are no simple answers to the effects of peer pressure on students.  It would be unfair to say that most peer pressure results in unwise decisions, as it is often generalized within current culture.  Peer pressure transforms a student in a unique manner.  The current analysis will examine the most dangerous effects of peer pressure on students, as well as the general negative and positive effects.

Dangerous Effects of Peer Pressure

There are a number of dangerous effects that peer pressure can have on students.  These effects are often felt within media and schools, which is where the perceived dangers of peer pressures lie, according to most.  However, they certainly cannot be disregarded due to the truth of these concerns.

Alcohol is felt within the consequences of peer pressure in students.  With regards to underage drinking, this is a significant problem within students, especially in high school and college.  The habits and commonplace of underage drinking is established in high school, which is then perpetuated to one’s college years.

Partying in general is another example of the more dangerous effects of peer pressure.  Younger students at parties are around others who are unsupervised, which makes them more susceptible to peer pressure.  Thus, items like drinking and other inappropriate behavior are accepted in one’s social circle.  Peer pressure is commonly seen at parties, which is where a number of dangerous activities occur.

Sex is also another example of the negative effects of peer pressure.  Students are having sex at a younger age, resulting in items like teenage pregnancies.  As underage and unprotected sex becomes accepted in social circles, peer pressure often has an effect on students in this way as well.

General Negative Effects

There are a number of generally negative effects that peer pressure can have on a student’s development.  Beyond the more dangerous effects, at least in regards to the more clearly defined negative effects, a number of underlying effects of peer pressure can be seen with students.  The dynamics that are presented in peer pressure in students can unfortunately be quite negative.

Peer pressure can often drown out the opinion of one.  When students are engaged in certain social circles, it is not uncommon to see the unfair treatment of individuals.  Certain individuals, whether they are not liked, ignored, or just not seen, are often unable to relate to others.

Peer pressure also removes the choices that one should be able to make.  A number of events and activities that students are involved in are done on a social level.  Such activities remove the healthy choices that enable students to seek adventure and healthy activities, instead of what is expected or on schedule.

The underlying negative dynamic of peer pressure is the ultimate undermining of individuality.  Peer pressure has the unfortunate effect of removing one’s own will and desires, in order to become accepted or liked within a social circle.  As seen in these negative examples and in the more dangerous illustrations, the individual is often casted our in peer pressure.  As a result, one is left to follow others in that of peer pressure.

General Positive Effects

Peer pressure can of course have positive effects on students.  While this is often not portrayed, it rings true for many students.  It can often push and help one to realize or perform something, to help someone thrive with the help of others.

Peer pressure can help individuals in more difficult periods.  Friends are there to help someone in tough times, and peer pressure can help someone who needs wise council.  Many students, who are involved with the right people, are able to enjoy the positive relationships when they need them the most.

Some activities driven by peer pressure can help students get involved.  Activities and functions can be great for the social development of a student.  Peer pressure, even when applied outside of one’s comfort zone, can ultimately be beneficial.

Peer pressure can also help individuals make the right choices.  When students face difficult choices in their life, they often rely on their friends.  In this manner peer pressure can help persuade one to the right decision, allowing their friend to see the positive way to react to an important choice.

It is unfortunate that peer pressure is often regarded in one dimension.  While there are certainly negative effects of peer pressure, such as those that undermine one’s individuality and encourage dangerous practices, peer pressure can help an individual develop through the difficult times as a student and a person.  Centered on surrounding oneself with positive influences, peer pressure can rise above the negative effects to institute healthy social and personal steps of one’s development.

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Speaking of Psychology: The good and bad of peer pressure, with Brett Laursen, PhD

When a school year begins, students are dealing with new classes, sports and other school-related activities. Most students will also face the challenges of peer pressure. Psychologist Brett Laursen , PhD, talks about the science behind peer pressure and what parents can do to help their kids.

About the expert: Brett Laursen, PhD

Streaming Audio

Audrey Hamilton: When a new school year begins, students are dealing with classes, sports and other extra-curricular activities. Most students will also face an entirely different set of challenges with peer pressure. Parents may notice a change in how their child dresses or behaves at home. How much of this is related to their friends' influence and how should parents address peer pressure with their children. In this podcast, we talk with a psychologist who looks at the science behind peer pressure, both the good and the bad.

Brett Laursen is a professor of psychology at Florida Atlantic University, where his research focuses on how children and teens interact with their peers and parents. Specifically, he studies how these relationships affect their social lives and academics. Dr. Laursen is a fellow of the American Psychological Association. Welcome.

Brett Laursen: Thanks. It's a pleasure to speak with you.

Audrey Hamilton: When does peer pressure typically begin to occur in children's lives and what impact does it have on child and adolescent development?

Brett Laursen: Before we tackle that question, I think it's important to define peer pressure. If we define peer- pressure as essentially, influence, then I think we can see that peer pressure begins very early on. But, it's not often the way that parents and adults think of it. You have explicit peer pressure and you have implicit peer pressure. So, let me give you an example. I know of a young man who just started middle school and started it with long hair and a couple of months into middle school he got his hair cut very short. This could have been because somebody made fun of his long hair. That would be the explicit form of peer pressure. But, it could also be very implicit. He could have wanted to fit in. He could have been eager to make new friends, other kids with short hair who didn't want them to be off put by his long hair. He could have thought this was some form of status – that people with short hair appear to have more status than people with long hair. We don't know, in this particular instance and we often don't really know exactly if it's one or the other and typically, it's probably a combination of things. So, when we think about peer pressure, we're really talking about influence to behave differently, that's exerted by peers.

So, when does it begin?

It begins as soon as children start to pay attention to what other children think about them. So, we can see peer influence in the very early grade school years. We see it over behavior problems where one set of peers will influence another to act badly. We also see it over academic achievement where friends do better when they're paired with other kids who are doing better in school. We see this as early as first grade. Our data in both Finland and the U.S. suggest that these influences happen with very young children.

Audrey Hamilton: Why are some children and teens more susceptible to peer pressure than others? You see some kids that generally seem to just do their own thing and not care what other children think of them, but that's not always the case and why are some of them more susceptible to that?

Brett Laursen: We're still working to disentangle the notion of susceptibility from the notion of being really influential. So, on the one hand, there are some children who are susceptible to influence from anyone – that is to say that whatever comes down the pike they're likely to follow. But, it's also the case that some people are more influential and so, if you hang around with people who tend to be particularly influential, you will look susceptible even though you're not particularly susceptible. It just happens to be that you're hanging around with others who are highly influential.

So, I'll try to address that question, but I want to put that big caveat out there first because if you're hanging around with somebody who's very persuasive and who has a lot of social skills, you may look susceptible when in fact you're not particularly susceptible to other people. It just has to do with those that you spend your time with. So, we know that susceptibility is greater for children who don't have a lot of friends. They want to protect the friendships that they have, and so they're more likely to do what their friends say because they're worried about losing their friends and have difficulty making others. Younger children who hang around with older children are susceptible to influence. Paradoxically, being popular may make you susceptible to influence. This one is a little bit up in the air, but it may be that popular kids in some domains worry about protecting their status and so, they're more likely to be influenced to be seen doing things that they should be seen doing even if they don't want to do them because otherwise they fear their status will diminish in the eyes of their peers.

Audrey Hamilton: What about any difference between boys and girls when it comes to peer pressure?

Brett Laursen: We don't have firm evidence on this but I can tell you this much is for sure. Boys spend much more time in groups than girls whereas girls spend their time; tend to spend their time in friendship dyads. And so, the influence that boys receive is much more likely to be concerned with fitting into the group as a whole. And so, boys need the approval of a larger group of peers whereas girls are much more focused on getting along with one or another particular individual. And so, we probably are going to see more individual influence on girls whereas boys are going to be more apt to be susceptible to forces from the group, as a whole.

Audrey Hamilton: And I'm sure there are some parents that are listening to this wondering what can they do to help children recognize and deal appropriately with peer pressure?

Brett Laursen: It's a good question. The first thing I think that parents can do is that they can help children recognize that attempts to influence them are everywhere. You can't turn around without somebody attempting to influence you. They want you to eat this or buy that or watch this or listen to that. So one of the first things we can do is we can help children understand that our culture is full of influence attempts and peers are just another set of forces that are vying for our attention and are vying to shape our behavior. So once children start to see that there are these influences everywhere, that's really the first step of the process. So, you recognize when there are influence attempts going on and you can start to label them and recognize them and label them and recognize them and children become more adept at recognizing and labeling them and identifying them, then you can start to talk with them about is that the kind of influence you want to be shaped by. Is that something that you want to be susceptible to? And if not, we start to talk about how we might resist that influence. But, it's much easier to resist influence if you've thought about your strategy beforehand. It's a teen going to a party and there's going to be somebody drinking there. Is that something that you want to resist or not? Certainly, you want to tell your teen that what are your strategies for if the person who was driving decides to drink? What are your strategies for not getting in the car? What is your strategy for finding a way home that won't involve driving with somebody who has been drinking? So, recognizing that there's influence out there, and it's not necessarily over influence. There's going to be a lot of covert, of implicit influence and that influence is just the same as all the other influence and children need to be sensitive to that.

Parents can serve as a buffer against peer-influence. We know that children who have good relations with their parents feel that they have less of a need to please their friends. So, I'll give you an example of one set of research findings that we have from work that we have done in Sweden.

Children who have friends who are really burned out on school – who report that they are tired of school – if your friend is a high burnout on school, then you're much more likely to feel less interested in school. School engagement is going to drop over the course of a year unless you report really strong relations with your parents. And so having a good relationship with your parents is going to buffer you against this adverse peer influence.

Audrey Hamilton: Some of what you're talking about – a lot of what you're talking about is negative peer-influence, but some of your research has looked at how peer-influence can be a positive factor in a child's life. What are some examples of that and what can children and teenagers do to develop these kinds of relationships? Brett Laursen: Well, if you think about it logically, it can't possibly be the case that all peer influence is bad or else children would all, inevitably end up as juvenile delinquents because influence would be negative and more negative and more negative and everyone would be susceptible to it. So, there has to be, there has to be some area of push back. There has to be some area where peers are good. We know that kids are going to be influenced for better or for worse by whoever is the more influential partner. So, if we take two friends out and we know that one is particularly influential – let's say the one who has more friend options or the one who is older or the one who is doing better in school or the one who is more attractive – whatever – the one who is more influential is going to set the tone for the influence. So, if the one who is more influential doesn't like to drink, then we have data that suggests that actually teens desist from alcohol consumption. That the lower, the less influential member of the group is going to desist from drinking because they want to be more like the more influential one. We see the same thing that the levels of delinquency will go down, as well. So it all depends on the characteristics of the more influential partner and the same is true in a group. The group leaders. So, the more the group leaders have a positive agenda, the more that other children are more likely to be influenced by that positive agenda. So, if you belong to a group where everyone is physically active, you're going to be physically active. There's a big "except" for this. Except for if you really don't want to do this, then you're likely to drop out of that group or not be friends with those particular individuals anymore. You are going to go and select people who are more like you and under those circumstances, when children are de-selected from groups or drop out of friendships, then they go and look for kids who have more similar levels of perhaps drinking or deviance and then they may be inclined to be influenced in a different direction.

Audrey Hamilton: Does peer pressure follow people into adulthood or is there a point in life when it becomes less of a factor?

Brett Laursen: For sure, peer pressure follows people across their whole life course. But, you're going to receive in different ways from different people. So, are adults susceptible to peer pressure? I think the answer is, of course! Last night, I went to back to school night for my children and I was very impressed by the whole string of SUV's that arrived and out of the SUV's got moms with very similar haircuts and very similar length of heels and dads who all look like they have gone shopping at the same place who differed only in terms of whether or not they wore a tie.

Audrey Hamilton: Right. All had the smartphones.

Brett Laursen: There's no question that we're susceptible to peer-influence and this proceeds across the course of our life. As we get older, we form romantic relationships and we get married, then different peers influence us. But, it's still peer influence, nevertheless.

Audrey Hamilton: Yeah, well great. Thank you so much for joining us, Dr. Laursen.

Brett Laursen: Pleasure was mine. Thank you.

Audrey Hamilton: For more information, please visit our website . Thank you for joining us. I'm Audrey Hamilton with the American Psychological Association's "Speaking of Psychology."

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Episode 2:  The good and bad of peer pressure

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Speaking of Psychology

Speaking of Psychology is an audio podcast series highlighting some of the latest, most important, and relevant psychological research being conducted today.

Produced by the American Psychological Association, these podcasts will help listeners apply the science of psychology to their everyday lives.

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About the host: Audrey Hamilton

Audrey Hamilton was the host of Speaking of Psychology from 2013 to 2018. A former broadcast news reporter, she worked in APA’s Office of Public Affairs from 2008 to 2018.

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Peer pressure - List of Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Peer pressure involves influence exerted by a peer group in encouraging a person to change their attitudes, values, or behaviors to conform to group norms. An essay on peer pressure could explore its effects on individuals, especially among teenagers, both positively and negatively. It may also delve into the psychological mechanisms behind peer pressure, strategies for resisting negative peer pressure, or the role of peer pressure in societal conformity and individual decision-making. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about Peer Pressure you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Positive Effects of Peer Pressure

What is peer pressure? Peer pressure is any influence from a group of people that changes a person’s behaviour or attitude. The term ‘peer pressure’ raises a lot of eyebrows; it is automatically assumed that it is inherently negative. However, this is not always the case. Despite the obvious stigma surrounding social influences, it is possible to be pressured in a positive way. There is another side of this phenomenon that most people don’t even consider to be peer pressure. […]

Peer Pressure in the Teen Years

Now a days, it’s hard to survive from peer pressure especially in the teen years. There are many solutions to handle peer pressure, but the most significant ways of doing it is keeping yourself busy. Surrounding yourself with people that you are very comfortable with, understanding your limits, keeping yourself busy with work, studying/doing homework, playing sports, etc. are all examples of keeping yourself busy. Once these solutions are executed, peer pressure will never become a problem.As children become teens […]

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Dear Time Warner Cable, Everyone is affected by peer pressure., Tthe positive side of peer pressure can have many benefits for the average teen or child. This can benefit teens and children that are being pressured to good deeds, and make good decisions for their own benefits. Peer pressure can be beneficial because it can encourage better behaviors, teens can develop good mentality, and teens can develop physically as well. First of all, pressuring someone to help others or often […]

Peer Pressure – Science Research

Peer pressure is typically placed upon adolescent’s shoulders by fellow peers in various situations and becomes a strong influence in an adolescent’s life. Peer pressure becomes inevitable for many adolescents and are caught between making a bad decision for the wrong reasons or making a right decision in order to aid in their success. Peer pressure can lead adolescents to engage in either risk-taking such as substance use or positive behavior.  Researchers have done many experiments as to how peer […]

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Alcohol is a colourless, volatile, inflammable liquid that is found in wines and beers and can have a harmful effect in the human body causing it not to function well; the human brain continues developing until a person has reached his or her mid 20s therefore alcohol’s effect on the brain may be worse among younger people. The legal drinking age in South Africa should be raised to 21 in order to stop young school children from going to unlicensed […]

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Peer pressure is the effect on individuals by their peers. Thus, individuals begin following their assessments and way of life. Besides, it is thinking about an individual or his assessment most importantly and giving him the need. Peer pressure effectively affects the young people of society. Some bogus influencers are playing with the personalities of the young people. Therefore, the young are going off course and demolishing their professional openings. Thusly it essential for an individual to not get affected […]

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Smoking is widespread among the US teenagers, with risk factors including health issues, peer influence, and risky sexual behavior; advocates should, therefore, focus on means to curb peer influence and risky behavior. Several solutions can be offered to help curb large amounts of peer pressure and risky sexual behavior. They include; vaping, community youth groups and free distribution of condoms among others. Although many factors affect teenagers, tobacco smoking, peer pressure, and risky sexual behavior are the most common ones. […]

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Essay about peer pressure This is when your peers try to influence the way you think or act. Therefore, the education system took care of how to resist this phenomenon? Students that attend C2E will be required to take a core class on “Teenage Survivor Skills”. This core class will be different for every grade, that way each grade learns age-appropriate material. It is the second period on Tuesdays/Thursdays. Funding is provided for a professional therapist through Bond and Mill Levy 5A and 5B that will rotate between classes teaching and will provide counseling for whoever needs it. This includes mental health awareness, drug, and peer pressure scenarios, and preparing for real-life dangerous situations. That way, kids will be informed earlier and more prepared for what is to come. This will help prevent mental health situations or hard times coming later in life. Older kids can come in to inform the younger ones about real-life experiences and give advice on situations. The classes are year-long so that the students can get the most information as possible. The classes are treated as a core class and graded accordingly while offering more hands-on activities. “Education about substance abuse is an important part of helping individuals understand the many aspects of it…” (“Substance Abuse Education Resources' 2018). People learn better through life experiences and making their own mistakes. Teens tend to want to experiment with drugs and alcohol and the class will explain the danger and effect of it. Most experiments are because of peer pressure, which is also vividly described in The Catcher in the Rye essay . Teens think that it will provide an escape, self-medication, boredom, rebellion, lack of confidence or misinformation. The class will help provide them with better and healthier ways to find confidence, help, etc. Many opponents to the idea will think that it is a waste of time and money to provide time and funding for this opportunity. “People should take tests to see what type of mental health diagnosis they have…also, if you aren’t seeing a good therapist then it is a waste of time and money. Not all kids get better from therapy and professionals so are we wasting our time.” While this fact is true it may be misinterpreted because, “1 in 5 children in youth have a diagnosable mental health condition, and 80% of them do not receive the help they need, only 40% of these kids will graduate from high school, and over 50% (14 and older) will drop out of high school.” Throughout the common misconceptions about high school dropouts, many do not get the help they need. Having courses to inform students stops many situations before they can even begin. Some studies have shown therapy is more harmful and can make you (more) depressed. Professor Glenys Parry (chief investigator of AdEPT) said “Most people are helped by therapy, but…anything that has real effectiveness, that has the transformative power to change your life, has also got the ability to make things worse if it is misapplied, the wrong treatment or if it’s not done correctly”. Although therapy can make you more depressed, it is actually a small percentage and very unlikely. Parry also said that the people who end up more depressed is because their therapist is “not practicing properly” , and you should get a new therapist. A good therapist can help you overcome and understand your feelings ('Hotline Information'). They will help find the problem and work on solving it. Therapy can also help you overcome fears, improve relationships, cope, and get rid of bad habits (drinking, drugs, etc.). Teenage Survival Skills will help prevent and prepare middle schoolers for upcoming years and peer pressure. The classes encourage and lead them carefully through tough situations they might face.  

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IELTS Essay: Peer Pressure

by Dave | Real Past Tests | 0 Comment

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of media instead of peer pressure from the real IELTS exam.

I write the essays on my blog for free for all students. If you want to support me to keep making materials, sign up for my full, exclusive IELTS EBooks here:

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Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important while others feel it has distinct disadvantages.

Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages?

Peer pressure refers to the influence young individuals experience within the same age group, affecting their behaviors. This essay will critically evaluate the drawbacks and benefits of peer pressure on young people.

Peer pressure often leads young individuals to engage in risky behaviors. For instance, teenagers may feel compelled to experiment with drugs due to the effect of their peers who engage in such activities. The desire to fit in and be accepted can override their better judgment, exposing them to serious short-term health risks and potential addiction later in life. Moreover, succumbing to negative peer pressure can adversely affect academic performance, as students may prioritize social acceptance over their studies. This desire for approval can result in poor grades, limited educational opportunities, and long-term negative consequences.

On the other hand, positive peer pressure can inspire young individuals to set higher goals, adopt healthier habits, and strive for academic excellence. Many teenagers are pressured by their peers to join a study group, leading to improved learning outcomes and academic success. Relatedly, supportive friends can inspire young individuals to engage in physical fitness activities or pursue positive hobbies and talents, promoting a healthier and more well-rounded lifestyle. This sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement fostered within positive peer groups can contribute significantly to personal growth and self-confidence. Actively seeking out positive and active peer groups and engaging in behaviors aligned with one’s personal values can help mitigate the adverse effects of negative peer pressure while harnessing the advantages of positive influence.

In conclusion, although peer pressure encourages risky behaviors and hinders personal growth, the motivational and emotional advantage make it a positive on the whole. Ultimately, striking some degree of balance between independence and positive peer interactions is crucial to minimizing the disadvantages and embracing the benefits.

1. Peer pressure refers to the influence young individuals experience within the same age group, affecting their behaviors. 2. This essay will critically evaluate the drawbacks and benefits of peer pressure on young people.

• Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
• Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here .

1. Peer pressure often leads young individuals to engage in risky behaviors. 2. For instance, teenagers may feel compelled to experiment with drugs due to the effect of their peers who engage in such activities. 3. The desire to fit in and be accepted can override their better judgment, exposing them to serious short-term health risks and potential addiction later in life. 4. Moreover, succumbing to negative peer pressure can adversely affect academic performance, as students may prioritize social acceptance over their studies. 5. This desire for approval can result in poor grades, limited educational opportunities, and long-term negative consequences.

• Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
• Explain your main idea.
• Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
• Keep developing it fully.
• Use specific examples.

1. On the other hand, positive peer pressure can inspire young individuals to set higher goals, adopt healthier habits, and strive for academic excellence. 2. Many teenagers are pressured by their peers to join a study group, leading to improved learning outcomes and academic success. 3. Relatedly, supportive friends can inspire young individuals to engage in physical fitness activities or pursue positive hobbies and talents, promoting a healthier and more well-rounded lifestyle. 4. This sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement fostered within positive peer groups can contribute significantly to personal growth and self-confidence. 5. Actively seeking out positive and active peer groups and engaging in behaviors aligned with one’s personal values can help mitigate the adverse effects of negative peer pressure while harnessing the advantages of positive influence.

• Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
• Explain your new main idea.
• Include specific details and examples.
• Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
• Finish the paragraph strong.

1. In conclusion, although peer pressure encourages risky behaviors and hinders personal growth, the motivational and emotional advantage make it a positive on the whole. 2. Ultimately, striking some degree of balance between independence and positive peer interactions is crucial to minimizing the disadvantages and embracing the benefits.

• Summarise your main ideas.
• Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

Peer pressure refers to the influence young individuals experience within the same age group , affecting their behaviors . This essay will critically evaluate the drawbacks and benefits of peer pressure on young people.

Peer pressure often leads young individuals to engage in risky behaviors. For instance, teenagers may feel compelled to experiment with drugs due to the effect of their peers who engage in such activities. The desire to fit in and be accepted can override their better judgment , exposing them to serious short-term health risks and potential addiction later in life . Moreover, succumbing to negative peer pressure can adversely affect academic performance , as students may prioritize social acceptance over their studies. This desire for approval can result in poor grades , limited educational opportunities , and long-term negative consequences .

On the other hand , positive peer pressure can inspire young individuals to set higher goals , adopt healthier habits , and strive for academic excellence . Many teenagers are pressured by their peers to join a study group , leading to improved learning outcomes and academic success . Relatedly , supportive friends can inspire young individuals to engage in physical fitness activities or pursue positive hobbies and talents , promoting a healthier and more well-rounded lifestyle . This sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement fostered within positive peer groups can contribute significantly to personal growth and self-confidence . Actively seeking out positive and active peer groups and engaging in behaviors aligned with one’s personal values can help mitigate the adverse effects of negative peer pressure while harnessing the advantages of positive influence.

In conclusion, although peer pressure encourages risky behaviors and hinders personal growth , the motivational and emotional advantage make it a positive on the whole . Ultimately, striking some degree of balance between independence and positive peer interactions is crucial to minimizing the disadvantages and embracing the benefits.

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

Peer pressure refers to Social influence

influence Unsafe actions

within the same age group People the same age

affecting Impacting

behaviors How you act

critically evaluate Have a good opinion about

drawbacks Disadvantages

benefits Advantages

risky behaviors Dangerous actions

feel compelled to experiment with Are obligated to try

due to Because of

engage in Participate in

desire to fit in Need for belonging

be accepted Feel part of a group

override Ignore

better judgment Sound reasoning

exposing Being vulnerable to

serious short-term health risks Grave immediate health dangers

potential addiction later in life Possible future dependency

succumbing to Giving in to

adversely affect academic performance Negatively impact educational achievements

prioritize social acceptance over Care more about what people think of you

desire for approval Craving validation

result in poor grades Lead to low academic marks

limited educational opportunities Restricted learning prospects

long-term negative consequences Bad in the long run

On the other hand However

set higher goals Establish ambitious objectives

adopt healthier habits Embrace more wholesome practices

strive for academic excellence Pursue scholastic mastery

pressured by Encouraged by others

join a study group Study with others

improved learning outcomes Enhanced educational results

academic success Doing well at school

Relatedly Similarly

supportive Encouraging

inspire Encourage

engage in physical fitness activities Participate in exercise routines

pursue positive hobbies and talents Follow constructive interests and abilities

promoting a healthier and more well-rounded lifestyle Advocating for a balanced and wholesome way of living

sense of camaraderie Feeling of comradeship

mutual encouragement fostered within positive peer groups Helping each other out within a friend circle

contribute significantly to personal growth and self-confidence Play a major role in individual development and self-assurance

Actively seeking out positive and active peer groups Energetically pursuing supportive and proactive social circles

engaging in behaviors aligned with one’s personal values Participating in actions that resonate with personal principles

mitigate Lessen negatives

adverse Bad

harnessing Utilizing

encourages Promotes

hinders personal growth Impedes individual development

motivational Inspiring

emotional Sentimental

make it a positive on the whole Turn it into an overall positive experience

Ultimately In the end

striking some degree of balance between independence and positive peer interactions Finding a middle ground between being independent and engaging in positive social interactions

crucial Essential

minimizing Reducing

embracing Accepting

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search :

pɪə ˈprɛʃə rɪˈfɜːz tuː   ˈɪnfluəns   wɪˈðɪn ðə seɪm eɪʤ ɡruːp   əˈfɛktɪŋ   bɪˈheɪvjəz   ˈkrɪtɪkᵊli ɪˈvæljueɪt   ˈdrɔːbæks   ˈbɛnɪfɪts   ˈrɪski bɪˈheɪvjəz   fiːl kəmˈpɛld tuː ɪkˈspɛrɪmɛnt wɪð   djuː tuː   ɪnˈɡeɪʤ ɪn   dɪˈzaɪə tuː fɪt ɪn   biː əkˈsɛptɪd   ˌəʊvəˈraɪd   ˈbɛtə ˈʤʌʤmənt   ɪksˈpəʊzɪŋ   ˈsɪəriəs ʃɔːt-tɜːm hɛlθ rɪsks   pəˈtɛnʃᵊl əˈdɪkʃᵊn ˈleɪtər ɪn laɪf   səˈkʌmɪŋ tuː   ˈædvɜːsli əˈfɛkt ˌækəˈdɛmɪk pəˈfɔːməns   praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz ˈsəʊʃᵊl əkˈsɛptᵊns ˈəʊvə   dɪˈzaɪə fɔːr əˈpruːvᵊl   rɪˈzʌlt ɪn pɔː ɡreɪdz   ˈlɪmɪtɪd ˌɛʤʊˈkeɪʃᵊnᵊl ˌɒpəˈtjuːnətiz   ˈlɒŋtɜːm ˈnɛɡətɪv ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz   ɒn ði ˈʌðə hænd   sɛt ˈhaɪə ɡəʊlz   əˈdɒpt ˈhɛlθɪə ˈhæbɪts   straɪv fɔːr ˌækəˈdɛmɪk ˈɛksᵊlᵊns   ˈprɛʃəd baɪ   ʤɔɪn ə ˈstʌdi ɡruːp   ɪmˈpruːvd ˈlɜːnɪŋ ˈaʊtkʌmz   ˌækəˈdɛmɪk səkˈsɛs   rɪˈleɪtɪdli   səˈpɔːtɪv   ɪnˈspaɪə   ɪnˈɡeɪʤ ɪn ˈfɪzɪkᵊl ˈfɪtnəs ækˈtɪvətiz   pəˈsjuː ˈpɒzətɪv ˈhɒbiz ænd ˈtælᵊnts   prəˈməʊtɪŋ ə ˈhɛlθɪər ænd mɔː wɛl-ˈraʊndɪd ˈlaɪfˌstaɪl   sɛns ɒv ˌkæməˈrɑːdᵊri   ˈmjuːʧuəl ɪnˈkʌrɪʤmənt ˈfɒstəd wɪˈðɪn ˈpɒzətɪv pɪə ɡruːps   kənˈtrɪbjuːt sɪɡˈnɪfɪkᵊntli tuː ˈpɜːsᵊnᵊl ɡrəʊθ ænd sɛlf-ˈkɒnfɪdᵊns   ˈæktɪvli ˈsiːkɪŋ aʊt ˈpɒzətɪv ænd ˈæktɪv pɪə ɡruːps   ɪnˈɡeɪʤɪŋ ɪn bɪˈheɪvjəz əˈlaɪnd wɪð wʌnz ˈpɜːsᵊnᵊl ˈvæljuːz   ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt   ˈædvɜːs   ˈhɑːnəsɪŋ   ɪnˈkʌrɪʤɪz   ˈhaɪndəz ˈpɜːsᵊnᵊl ɡrəʊθ   ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃᵊnᵊl   ɪˈməʊʃᵊnᵊl   meɪk ɪt ə ˈpɒzətɪv ɒn ðə həʊl   ˈʌltɪmɪtli   ˈstraɪkɪŋ sʌm dɪˈɡriː ɒv ˈbælᵊns bɪˈtwiːn ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəns ænd ˈpɒzətɪv pɪər ˌɪntərˈækʃᵊnz   ˈkruːʃᵊl   ˈmɪnɪmaɪzɪŋ   ɪmˈbreɪsɪŋ  

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

P_____________________ o the i__________e young individuals experience w_________________________p , a__________g their b__________s . This essay will c____________________e the d_____________s and b______s of peer pressure on young people.

Peer pressure often leads young individuals to engage in r __________________ s. For instance, teenagers may f________________________________________h drugs d_______o the effect of their peers who e_________n such activities. The d ___________________ n and b_____________d can o_________e their b_____________t , e_____________g them to s________________________________s and p_____________________________e . Moreover, s_____________o negative peer pressure can a____________________________e , as students may p________________________________________r their studies. This d__________________l can r_____________________s , l_______________________________________s , and l____________________________________s .

O__________________d , positive peer pressure can i____________e young individuals to s_________________s , a_____________________________s , and s _________________________ e . Many teenagers are p_____________y their peers to j________________________p , leading to i________________________s and a ________________ s . R________y , s_______________e friends can i________e young individuals to e _____________________________ s or p______________________________________s , p _____________________________________________ e . This s________________________e and m___________________________________________________s can c_________________________________________________________________________________e . A________________________________________________________________________s and e________________________________________________________s can help m_________e the a_________e effects of negative peer pressure while h__________g the advantages of positive influence.

In conclusion, although peer pressure e________________s risky behaviors and h________________________h , the m___________________l and e___________l advantage m__________________________e . U____________y, s_________________________________________________________________________________________________s is c_______l to m___________g the disadvantages and e_______________g the benefits.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities :

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice :

https://raisingchildren.net.au/teens/behaviour/peers-friends-trends/peer-influence

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

• Do you prefer to have a lot of friends or a small group of friends?
• What do you usually do with your friends?
• Do you have a best friend?
• How do friends in your country stay in touch?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below

Many people argue that in order to improve educational quality, high school students should be encouraged to question and offer criticisms on their teachers. Others think this will lead to a loss of respect and discipline in the classroom.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: High School Students

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Essay on Peer Pressure

Updated December 21, 2023

Do you know the latest trend?

In the quest to find our place within friend circles, we often engage in activities we might not truly desire. The constant need to stay in tune with our identity while also aligning with the vibes of our peers has become a crucial aspect of teenage life. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to conform, rest assured, you’re not alone. Today, we address this widespread challenge experienced by every teenager and offer practical suggestions on navigating and coping with it.

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Types of Peer Pressure

Let’s delve into the various types of peer pressure:

1. Direct Peer Pressure

Direct peer pressure involves explicit attempts by individuals to influence others to conform to specific behaviors, choices, or actions. This can manifest through direct persuasion, encouragement, or even coercion. Examples include friends urging someone to try drugs, engage in risky activities, or adopt a particular lifestyle. The impact of direct peer pressure is immediate and tangible, as individuals may feel compelled to conform to avoid social rejection or gain approval.

2. Indirect Peer Pressure

Unlike its direct counterpart, indirect peer pressure operates more subtly. It involves the influence of societal norms, trends, or expectations that indirectly shape individuals’ behaviors. In this form, individuals may feel compelled to conform without explicit suggestions from peers. Adapting one’s appearance, interests, or behavior to align with what is considered popular or socially acceptable reflects the subtlety of indirect peer pressure. It often operates on a broader societal level, shaping cultural expectations and individual choices.

3. Positive Peer Pressure

Positive peer pressure involves encouraging or influencing peers towards behaviors that have constructive outcomes. Friends may motivate one another to study harder, participate in sports, or perform community service. This peer pressure fosters personal growth and development, creating a positive and supportive social environment. It emphasizes shared goals that benefit individuals and the community, promoting a sense of collective achievement.

4. Negative Peer Pressure

Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, encourages individuals to participate in potentially dangerous actions. Friends might pressure someone to skip classes, experiment with drugs, or engage in delinquent activities. Negative peer pressure often stems from the desire for social acceptance, fear of exclusion, or misguided attempts to fit in. The consequences of succumbing to negative peer pressure can range from immediate risks to long-term adverse effects on an individual’s well-being.

5. Individual Peer Pressure

Individual peer pressure is an internalized form where individuals pressure themselves to conform to perceived expectations, even without direct external influence. This may stem from a desire to fit in, avoid standing out, or align with personal ideals. The pressure comes from within, as individuals may feel compelled to adopt certain habits or make specific choices based on their perception of social norms or expectations.

6. Relational Peer Pressure

Relational peer pressure involves the influence exerted by the dynamics within specific relationships or cliques. Individuals within a close-knit group may feel pressure to conform to maintain social harmony. This form can be particularly intense, as the desire to belong and avoid conflict within the group may lead individuals to compromise their values or adopt behaviors that align with the group’s expectations.

7. Cyber Peer Pressure

With the advent of technology, cyber peer pressure emerges through online platforms, social media, and digital interactions. Individuals may feel compelled to conform to digital trends, participate in online challenges, or adopt behaviors influenced by their peers. Cyber peer pressure adds a new dimension to social influence as the online world shapes perceptions and expectations, impacting individuals’ choices and behaviors in both virtual and real-life settings.

Factors Contributing to Peer Pressure

Many factors shape the influence of peer pressure, each playing a role in the complex dynamics of social interactions. Here are key factors contributing to peer pressure:

• Developmental Stage: Peer pressure varies across different stages of development, with adolescents being particularly susceptible. During this phase, individuals often strive for identity and acceptance, making them more prone to conforming to peer expectations.
• Social Environment: Family, school, and community settings significantly impact the nature and intensity of peer pressure. Cultural norms and societal expectations can shape the values and behaviors that peers influence.
• Media and Technology: The pervasive influence of media, including social media platforms, can amplify peer pressure. Digital trends and online behaviors can quickly become influential, setting new standards for acceptance and popularity.
• Parental Influence: Parental attitudes and expectations affect how individuals respond to peer pressure. Parenting styles that encourage open communication and provide guidance can equip individuals with the tools to resist negative influences.
• School Environment: The social dynamics within schools, including the prevalence of cliques and social hierarchies, can intensify peer pressure. Academic and extracurricular pursuits may also contribute to individual pressures.
• Individual Differences: Personal traits, such as self-esteem, confidence, and resilience, play a crucial role in how individuals respond to peer pressure. Those with a strong sense of self are often better equipped to resist negative influences.
• Desire for Acceptance: The innate human need for social acceptance can drive individuals to conform to peer expectations. Fear of rejection or exclusion can be a powerful motivator, leading to choices that align with group norms.
• Cultural Influences: Cultural values and norms shape the expectations placed on individuals within a particular society. Conforming to these expectations may be seen as fitting in and gaining social approval.
• Peer Group Dynamics: The characteristics and behaviors of a specific peer group strongly influence the type of pressure exerted. Groups with shared interests and values may exert positive pressure, while others may promote negative behaviors.
• Lack of Guidance: Inadequate advice from trusted adults or mentors might leave individuals vulnerable to peer pressure. Having supportive role models can help individuals navigate peer pressure more effectively.

Effects of Peer Pressure

• Psychological Impact: Peer pressure can exert a profound psychological toll on individuals, manifesting in heightened stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil. The persistent drive to conform to the expectations of a peer group can lead to internal conflicts as individuals struggle with the friction between their real selves and the need for social acceptability. Rejection or isolation can weaken identity, affect mental health, and lead to inadequacy.
• Behavioral Changes: The effects of peer pressure often extend to observable changes in behavior. Individuals may find themselves engaging in activities they would otherwise avoid, succumbing to the influence of their peers. This might range from following specific fashion trends to engaging in dangerous activities or substance misuse. Behavioral changes, driven by the desire to fit in or gain approval, may have immediate consequences and, if unchecked, can lead to long-term habits that deviate from one’s true values.
• Social Conformity: One prevalent effect of peer pressure is the inclination towards social conformity, where individuals alter their actions and beliefs to align with those of their peers. While providing a sense of belonging, this conformity can erode individual autonomy and critical thinking. The fear of standing out or being perceived as different may lead individuals to compromise their values, hindering personal growth and the development of a strong, independent identity.
• Risk-Taking Behavior: Negative peer pressure is often associated with increased risk-taking behavior. Whether it involves experimenting with substances, engaging in dangerous activities, or disregarding personal safety, individuals under the influence of peer pressure may take risks they would otherwise avoid. The allure of acceptance within a group can override rational decision-making, exposing individuals to potentially harmful situations and long-term consequences.
• Impact on Academic Performance: Peer pressure can extend into the academic sphere, affecting an individual’s focus, priorities, and study habits. Pursuing social acceptance may lead some students to prioritize socializing over academic responsibilities, potentially resulting in lower grades and compromised educational outcomes. This shift in priorities can affect future opportunities and personal development.
• Strained Relationships: The influence of peer pressure can strain relationships with family and non-peer connections. Conflicting expectations between peer groups and other significant relationships may create tension and create isolation. The pressure to prioritize peer relationships over familial or personal values can strain bonds and create challenges in maintaining a healthy support system outside the immediate peer group.

Coping Strategies and Solutions

1. building resilience.

Building resilience involves developing the ability to withstand and bounce back from challenges, including peer pressure. This can be achieved by fostering a strong sense of self, cultivating a positive mindset, and embracing failures as opportunities for growth. Resilient individuals are better equipped to navigate social pressures while staying true to their values and beliefs.

Example: Encouraging individuals to reflect on past challenges, identify strengths gained from overcoming them, and framing setbacks as learning experiences enhance resilience.

2. Assertiveness and Communication Skills

Developing assertiveness and effective communication skills empowers individuals to express their thoughts, opinions, and boundaries confidently. Being able to articulate one’s values and decisions helps in resisting negative peer pressure without succumbing to the fear of social rejection.

Example: Role-playing scenarios where individuals practice assertive communication can strengthen their ability to convey their choices respectfully and confidently.

3. Support Networks

Establishing and maintaining supportive relationships can be a crucial coping strategy. Having friends, family, or mentors who understand and respect individual choices provides a strong foundation against negative peer influences. Support networks offer encouragement, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

Example: Encouraging open communication within families, fostering mentorship programs, and creating supportive peer groups help individuals build and sustain positive connections.

4. Setting Boundaries

Clearly defining personal boundaries involves recognizing one’s limits and communicating them effectively. Setting boundaries is essential to maintaining autonomy and safeguarding individual values in the face of peer pressure.

Example: Individuals can practice assertively communicating their boundaries, such as saying “no” to activities that go against their values or comfort levels, reinforcing their commitment to personal integrity.

5. Cultivating Self-Efficacy

Cultivating self-efficacy involves developing a belief in one’s ability to navigate challenges and achieve goals. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to resist negative peer pressure, as they have confidence in their capacity to make independent and positive choices.

Example: Encouraging individuals to set and achieve small goals builds self-efficacy, contributing to a sense of agency and control over their lives.

6. Critical Thinking Skills

Enhancing critical thinking skills enables individuals to assess situations objectively, weigh potential consequences, and make informed decisions. This cognitive ability is crucial in resisting peer pressure by allowing individuals to evaluate the impact of their choices on their well-being and future.

Example: Engaging in discussions that encourage critical thinking, such as analyzing the motivations behind peer pressure, helps individuals develop a thoughtful and analytical approach to decision-making.

7. Positive Role Models

Positive role models provide individuals with examples of values and behaviors that align with their aspirations. Observing and learning from role models who exemplify resilience, integrity, and independence can inspire individuals to resist negative peer pressure.

Example: Encouraging mentorship programs, highlighting inspirational figures, and fostering positive role models within communities contribute to a supportive environment.

Parental and Educational Roles

1. parental guidance.

• Open Communication: Effective communication between parents and their adolescents is a cornerstone in mitigating the impact of peer pressure. Encouraging an open dialogue creates a space where adolescents feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and experiences. Parents might get significant insights into their children’s difficulties by actively listening and providing nonjudgmental assistance.
• Setting Realistic Expectations: Parents greatly influence their children’s expectations and values. Parents can assist teens in developing a strong internal compass by setting realistic expectations and emphasizing the implications of confident choices. This entails instilling a feeling of duty and accountability in them and equipping them to make informed decisions in the face of peer pressure.

2. School-based Programs

• Peer Mentoring: Peer mentoring programs within educational institutions can provide adolescents with positive role models. Older students serving as mentors can offer guidance, share personal experiences, and create a supportive environment for younger peers. This fosters a sense of community and helps counterbalance negative peer pressure with constructive influences.
• Character Education Initiatives: Integrating character education into the curriculum can equip students with essential life skills. This includes promoting values such as integrity, resilience, and empathy. Through targeted programs, schools can create an atmosphere that encourages personal development and cultivates a strong sense of self, helping students withstand negative peer pressure.

Case Studies and Examples

1. resisting negative peer pressure in college.

Emma, a college freshman, faced pressure from her new group of friends to participate in heavy drinking at social gatherings. Despite feeling uncomfortable with excessive alcohol consumption, Emma didn’t want to be perceived as “uncool” or risk social exclusion.

Emma decided to communicate her boundaries with her friends openly. She expressed her preference not to engage in heavy drinking due to personal reasons and health concerns. Surprisingly, her friends respected her decision; some shared similar problems but hesitated to voice them. This case illustrates the power of assertiveness and open communication in resisting negative peer pressure.

2. Positive Peer Pressure Leading to Academic Success

Mark was part of a friend group prioritizing academic achievement as a high school student. Although initially hesitant, Mark was positively influenced by his friends’ dedication to their studies.

Over time, Mark’s grades improved, and he became more focused on his academic goals. The positive peer pressure from his friends helped him develop better study habits and encouraged him to set higher educational aspirations for himself. This example showcases how peer influence can contribute to constructive outcomes when aligned with personal growth.

3. Navigating Cultural Expectations

Sara, a teen from a conservative cultural background, was under pressure to conform to traditional gender norms and job expectations. Her family expected her to pursue a medical career, but she aspired to become a graphic designer.

Sara engaged in open and respectful communication with her family, explaining her passion for graphic design. With time, she educated her family on the potential success and fulfillment she could find in this field. Eventually, her family, realizing her dedication, supported her decision. This case demonstrates the importance of setting and communicating personal goals even when facing cultural or familial expectations.

4. Peer Support in Overcoming Substance Abuse

Jake struggled with substance abuse during his teenage years, influenced by a group of friends who engaged in regular drug use. Recognizing the negative impact on his life, Jake decided to seek help.

With the support of a counselor and the encouragement of a new group of friends who promoted a drug-free lifestyle, Jake successfully overcame his addiction. This example underscores the significance of positive peer support in overcoming detrimental behaviors and making positive life choices.

5. Balancing Social and Academic Commitments

Sophia, a college student, faced the challenge of balancing social activities with academic responsibilities. Her friends often encouraged her to prioritize social events over study sessions.

Sophia implemented a time-management plan that allowed her to participate in social activities while dedicating focused time to her studies. She found a balance that met her social and academic needs by communicating her academic goals to her friends and involving them in group study sessions. This case highlights the importance of effective time management and communication in navigating peer pressure.

Peer pressure is a pervasive force that significantly shapes individuals’ lives. Whether facing challenges or enjoying positive influences, navigating peer pressure requires a combination of resilience, assertiveness, and a strong sense of self. Individuals can navigate social dynamics by fostering open communication, building supportive networks, and embracing positive role models while staying true to their values. Ultimately, understanding and addressing peer pressure contribute to personal growth, empowerment, and the development of authentic, fulfilling lives.

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What to Know About Peer Pressure

It's not as simple as just saying no

• Positive Peer Pressure

Peer Pressure vs. Parental Influence

Peer pressure beyond childhood.

Have you ever been pressured to have "one more drink," or stay out later than you said you'd be home? If so, you've been a victim of peer pressure—chances are, most of us have. Peer pressure is the process by which members of the same social group influence other members to do things that they may be resistant to, or might not otherwise choose to do.

Peers are people who are part of the same social group, so the term "peer pressure" refers to the influence that peers can have on each other. Usually, the term peer pressure is used when people are talking about behaviors that are not considered socially acceptable or desirable, such as experimentation with alcohol or drugs. According to child and adolescent psychiatrist Akeem Marsh, MD , "it’s very easy to be influenced by peer pressure as we humans are wired as social creatures."

sturti / Getty Images

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.

What Is an Example of Peer Pressure?

Peer pressure causes people to do things they would not otherwise do with the hope of fitting in or being noticed.

For adolescents, peer relationships are the most important of all thus leading to an increased susceptibility to peer pressure.

Things people may be peer pressured into doing include:

• Acting aggressively (common among men)
• Bullying others
• Doing drugs
• Dressing a certain way
• Drinking alcohol
• Engaging in vandalism or other criminal activities
• Physically fighting
• Only socializing with a certain group

Peer pressure or the desire to impress their peers can override a teen or tween's fear of taking risks, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse for Kids. Risky behavior with drugs and/or alcohol may result in the following:

• Alcohol or drug poisoning
• Asphyxiation
• Driving under the influence (of alcohol or other drugs)
• Sexually transmitted diseases

Behavioral Addiction

People can also feel an internal pressure to participate in activities and behaviors they think their peers are doing, which can put them at risk for the following behavioral addictions:

• Food addiction
• Gambling addiction
• Internet addiction
• Sex addiction
• Shopping addiction
• Video game addiction

In the case of teens, parents are rarely concerned about the peer pressure their kids may face to engage in sports or exercise, as these are typically seen as healthy social behaviors. This is OK, as long as the exercise or sport does not become an unhealthy way of coping, excessive to the point of negatively affecting their health, or dangerous (as in dangerous sports).

What starts out as positive peer pressure may become negative pressure if it leads a person to over-identify with sports, for example, putting exercise and competition above all else.

If taken to an extreme, they may develop exercise addiction , causing them to neglect schoolwork and social activities, and ultimately, use exercise and competition in sports as their main outlet for coping with the stresses of life. This can also lead to numerous health consequences.

What Are Examples of Positive Peer Pressure?

We tend to hear more about the potentially negative effects of peer pressure. But the reality is, peer pressure can also be positive. For instance, two friends might put positive pressure on each other to go to the gym together and stay accountable for their fitness goals.

Teens who volunteer in their community can keep each other motivated to participate. This involvement can lead to exposure to role models and eventually lead to the teens becoming positive role models themselves.

You can also positively peer pressure others by the way you respond to situations. For instance, if your friend is body-shaming another person, you can say, "Actually, it can be really harmful to criticize people's bodies like that."

In turn, your friend might reconsider criticizing people based on their appearance. By simply adhering to your own values and sharing them with a friend, you can positively peer pressure them to think before making a negative comment.

Although parents worry about the influence of peers, overall, parents also can have a strong influence on whether children succumb to negative peer pressure.

Rather than worrying about the effects of their children's friendships, parents would do well to focus on creating a positive, supportive home environment. That way, even if your child is peer pressured to do something they don't want to do, they'll feel comfortable coming to you to talk about it first.

Role modeling good emotional self-regulation may also help your child stick to their own values when it comes to peer pressure. Self-regulation involves the ability to control thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to manage current behavior and achieve long-term goals.

This will teach your child positive ways of solving problems and coping with uncomfortable feelings , rather than trying to escape by doing things to fit into a crowd. Parents can balance the peer pressure to take potentially harmful risks by ensuring they set appropriate boundaries, provide support, and help avoid risks. A few examples:

• Pick up your child from events where alcohol or drugs may have been consumed.
• Provide balanced, truthful information on issues such as alcohol and drug use.
• Stay involved in your child's life. Believe it or not, you are one of their biggest influences and they listen when you talk.
• Urge the importance of thinking before doing. Teach teens to ask themselves questions like: Could this harm me or someone else? Will this put my health or safety at risk? Is it legal? What are the long-term consequences for my health, family, education, and future?

As parents, we must be mindful of the impact of peer pressure on ourselves as our children will be observing and take notice.

Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure because they are at a stage of development when they are separating more from their parents' influence, but have not yet established their own values or understanding of human relationships or the consequences of their behavior.

They are also typically striving for social acceptance and are more willing to engage in behaviors against their better judgment to be accepted.

However, adults are also vulnerable to peer pressure. Many adults are susceptible to drinking too much because their friends are doing it, or putting work before family because they're competing with other people in their office for a promotion.

Being aware of, and carefully choosing the influence of peers that will lead to healthy and happy experiences is a lifelong process.

How to Deal With Peer Pressure

Dealing with peer pressure can be difficult, but below are some ways to help address it.

Take Your Time

Instead of quickly agreeing to do something you'd rather not do, pause and take a few deep breaths . If someone is waiting for you to answer them, tell them you need to take a few days and think about it. It's easier to resist the pressure when you put some time and space between yourself and the situation.

Consider Your Reasons

When you're faced with a choice, ask yourself what your reasons are for doing something. If it's because all of your friends are doing it and you're afraid they won't talk to you if you don't join them, then you may want to reconsider.

You deserve to surround yourself with supportive people who respect your decisions—not people who pressure you into doing something that doesn't feel right.

Set Boundaries

Saying "no" can be hard, but it's necessary to set healthy boundaries in relationships . If someone persistently pressures you to do something, you can try telling them how it affects you.

For instance, you might say something like, "It upsets me when you offer me a cigarette when you know I don't smoke. I won't be able to keep hanging out with you if you don't respect my answer."

Offer an Alternative

It's possible that a friend who is peer pressuring you simply wants to spend more time with you or connect with you, but they don't know how else to ask.

If they pressure you to do shots with them at the bar when you aren't drinking, for example, you might suggest that you both hit the dance floor instead. Or maybe, you make a plan to go on a hike or to the movies the next time you hang out. That way, you're fulfilling both of your needs in a mutually beneficial way.

Clark DA, Donnellan MB, Durbin CE, et al. Sex, drugs, and early emerging risk: Examining the association between sexual debut and substance use across adolescence . PLoS ONE. 2020;15(2):e0228432. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0228432

Stanaland A, Gaither S. “Be a man”: The role of social pressure in eliciting men’s aggressive cognition . Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2021;47(11):1596-1611. doi:10.1177/0146167220984298

Sabramani V, Idris IB, Ismail H, Nadarajaw T, Zakaria E, Kamaluddin MR. Bullying and its associated individual, peer, family and school factors: Evidence from Malaysian National Secondary School students .  Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2021;18(13):7208. doi:10.3390/ijerph18137208

Kim J, Fletcher JM. The influence of classmates on adolescent criminal activities in the United States .  Deviant Behav . 2018;39(3):275-292. doi:10.1080/01639625.2016.1269563

National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens. Why Does Peer Pressure Influence Teens To Try Drugs? .

Pamela Rackow, Urte Scholz, Rainer Hornung.  Received social support and exercising: An intervention study to test the enabling hypothesis .  British Journal of Health Psychology , 2015;20(4):763. doi:10.1111/bjhp.12139

Vogel L. Fat shaming is making people sicker and heavier .  CMAJ . 2019;191(23):E649. doi:10.1503/cmaj.109-5758

Dhull P, Beniwal RD. Dealing with peer pressure . Online International Interdisciplinary Research Journal. 2017;7.

By Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD is a psychologist, professor, and Director of the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University, Canada. 

Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Peer Pressure — Influences of Group Pressure on Individuals

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Home / Essay Samples / Sociology / Interpersonal Relationship / Peer Pressure

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The relationship between the behaviour and influences of peers and the behaviour of individuals has been explored in a variety of ways. There are number of factors that have been found to influence the effect of peer behaviour on individual behaviour. These factors include age,...

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