1. 2 March 2011 H www.amawinna.co.za
amaOk
CAUTION
PEER
PRESSURE
Peer pressure can happen when we
are influenced to do something we
usually would not do, or stopped from
doing something we would like to do,
because we want to be accepted by
our peers. We often experience peer
pressure when we try to live up to a
person or a group’s expectations – like
being expected to go clubbing, partying,
drink, or follow a particular fashion trend.
How does peer pressure
affect us?
Peer pressure may be a good thing and help
to challenge or motivate us to do our best.
But peer pressure may also lead you to do
things that don’t fit with your sense of what is
right and wrong.
Peer pressure may influence us in a number
of ways, including our:
H fashion choice
H alcohol and other drug use
H decision to have a boyfriend/girlfriend
H choice of who our friends are
H academic performance
What can we do about peer
pressure?
It may be hard to resist peer pressure, make decisions
based on what is best for us, take responsibility for what
we do and how we think, and still be part of a group!
It is tough to be the only one who says “no” to peer
pressure, but you can do it. Paying attention to your
own feelings and beliefs about what is right and wrong
can help you know the right thing to do. Self-confidence
can help you walk away, and resist doing something when
you know better.
Here are some suggestions
that may help you manage peer
pressure better:
Common interests – Hang out with people who like
doing the same things that you do.
Saying “no” – Having the strength to say “no” may
be hard, but it feels good to stick to what you believe
in. Explain to people in a calm way that you don’t want
to be part of something, and walk away – it may even
earn you respect from others.
Take action – If you continue to face peer pressure and you’re finding
it difficult to handle, talk to someone you trust. Don’t feel guilty if you’ve
made a mistake or two – we all have. Talking to a parent, teacher, or
school counselor can help you feel much better and prepare you for the
next time you face peer pressure.
Knowing who to listen to and who to avoid is the biggest step in fighting
unwanted, negative peer pressure. Remember, it’s your life and your
responsibility for determining what you make of it!
Contact Janine on janine.shamos@gmail.com or visit her website
www.liveyourlife.co.za. H
Under
pressure!
When people your age, your friends,
or classmates try to influence how you act,
or get you to do something, it’s called
peer pressure. It’s something everyone hasto deal with - even adults.
H By: Janine Shamos
True Friends - These
are the ones in the
small, close group
of people that you
confide in and you
know that they
have your best
interest in mind. The
people in this group
respect and like you
for who you are,
not for what you
do or the clothes
you wear.