Peer pressure is very common in teens, especially in high school. The most common form includes pressuring or manipulating other people to do something in a forced way, such as drugs or alcohol.
Teens may be getting peer pressured without knowing it, and it is important that they know the signs, how to say no and avoid the situation.
“Peer pressure is when another person tries to get you to do something that you don’t want to do,” freshman Sarah Ramos said.
Persuading others to drink alcohol can largely be seen among young people.
“I think the most common situation of peer pressure is drinking and [anything] alcohol consumption related,” Peltz said.
When it comes to peer pressure, it can mostly be close friends who are pushing their peers to do these kinds of things.
“I have been pressured by a good friend, but it wasn’t a serious issue,” freshman Elizabeth Peltz said. “My opinion changed slightly of them, but I didn’t like that my friend was pushing me to do something.”
Depending on the severity of the situation, the best way to get out of one of these situations is to just say no.
“It is easy to say no because I don’t care what people think,” Ramos said.
Although sometimes it can be hard to do, saying no has many benefits to come with it. Staying away from people who cause pressure is also a good way to prevent unnecessary conflicts.
“I usually go home and try not to surround myself around people who pressure me,” Ramos said.
Spending time with friends who offer a strong support system during challenging times is key to avoiding peer pressure.
“Having a good group of friends is important to avoid peer pressure,” Ramos said.
Anyone can play a big role in peer pressure, and it is important to know what to do in a situation like this.
“Students can say no to whoever is pressuring them and tell a teacher or trusted adult about what is happening,” Peltz said.
