Peer Pressure

Full Answer Section

Why Peer Pressure Takes Place

There are a number of reasons why peer pressure takes place. One reason is that people have a natural desire to belong and be accepted by others. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to this because they are developing their own identity and trying to figure out where they fit in. If they see their peers engaging in certain behaviors, they may feel pressured to do the same in order to be accepted.

Another reason for peer pressure is that people want to avoid being different. Adolescents are often afraid of being teased or ostracized by their peers. If they see their peers doing something, they may feel pressured to do the same in order to avoid being singled out.

Finally, peer pressure can also be a way to conform to social norms. Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior in a particular social group. If certain behaviors are considered to be normal or acceptable by a peer group, then individuals within that group may feel pressured to engage in those behaviors in order to fit in.

Types of Peer Pressure

There are two main types of peer pressure: positive and negative.

• Positive peer pressure: Positive peer pressure can encourage people to engage in positive behaviors, such as studying hard, getting good grades, and participating in extracurricular activities.
• Negative peer pressure: Negative peer pressure can encourage people to engage in negative behaviors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs.

Examples of Peer Pressure

Here are some examples of peer pressure:

• A group of students are smoking cigarettes after school. One student who does not smoke is invited to join the group. The student may feel pressured to smoke in order to be accepted by the group.
• A student is invited to a party where alcohol will be served. The student does not want to drink alcohol, but they are afraid of being teased or ostracized by their peers if they do not drink.
• A student is dating someone who uses drugs. The student does not want to use drugs, but their partner pressures them to do so.

How to Deal with Peer Pressure

It is important to know how to deal with peer pressure, especially if you are susceptible to negative peer pressure. Here are some tips:

• Be assertive. It is important to be able to say no to your peers, even if it is difficult. If you feel pressured to do something that you don't want to do, be assertive and say no.
• Surround yourself with positive friends. If you have friends who encourage you to engage in positive behaviors, you are less likely to give in to negative peer pressure.
• Talk to a trusted adult. If you are struggling to deal with peer pressure, talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school counselor. They can help you to develop strategies for dealing with peer pressure and making positive choices.

Conclusion

Peer pressure is a powerful force that can influence people's behavior. It is important to be aware of peer pressure and to know how to deal with it, especially if you are susceptible to negative peer pressure. By being assertive, surrounding yourself with positive friends, and talking to a trusted adult, you can develop the skills and strategies you need to deal with peer pressure and make positive choices.

Sample Answer

Introduction

Peer pressure is the influence that a person experiences from their peers or social group. It can be a powerful force in shaping a person's behavior, especially during adolescence. Peer pressure can be positive or negative, but it is often associated with negative behaviors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs.