6 Ways on How Students Can Navigate Through Different Types of Peer Pressure

Have you ever heard the saying that school is like a second home? It’s a common phrase, often shared by parents or teachers who want you to understand just how much time you spend there. Think about it: from kindergarten to college graduation, you're investing almost 18 years of your life in education. That's a lot of time spent in classrooms, hallways, and cafeterias!
‍

‍
During those years, you encounter all kinds of people. Some of them may even become your friends or peers. You naturally gravitate towards them because you share interests, age, background, or social status; and these peers play a big role in shaping your self-identity. But sometimes, their influence isn't always positive. Sometimes, the pressure to conform or fit in can lead us down paths we'd rather not tread. Have you ever found yourself agreeing to something you weren't comfortable with, just to avoid standing out or feeling left out? That's what we call peer pressure—and it's something that many students experience here in the Philippines.
‍

‍
In this article, we're going to dive into why students are vulnerable to peer pressure, explore the different forms it can take, and discuss strategies for handling it. So, if you've ever felt like you or someone close to you are not sure how to deal with peer pressure, stick around. We've got some insights that might help.
‍

‍
Students find themselves particularly susceptible to peer pressure due to a blend of biological and social factors. First off, their brains are still in the works, especially the prefrontal cortex, which is the control center for decision-making and holding back impulses. It's not fully developed during adolescence, which can make teens more prone to taking risks without  grasping the consequences of their actions.
‍

‍
On the social side of things, the teen years are all about figuring out who you are and where you fit in the world. So, naturally, there's this strong drive to be part of the crowd. Think about all those movies and shows where characters are navigating the high school social scene—it happens in real life too!
‍

‍
Lastly, let's not forget that adolescence can be a rocky road for self-confidence. When doubts creep in, teens often turn to their peers for reassurance. This need for validation can sometimes lead them to go along with things they wouldn't normally do, just to feel like they belong.

‍

When it comes to mental health, the impact of peer pressure on young people cannot be overstated. Prolonged exposure to such pressure can create a breeding ground for a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. Recognizing why peer pressure occurs is just the beginning of the journey toward fostering better mental well-being among youth. To truly tackle this challenge, it's crucial to understand the various forms it can take. Let's delve into the types of peer pressure commonly encountered by students, as outlined by Professor and Psychologist, Elizabeth Hartney.

1. Bullying others. Bullying remains a pervasive issue in many school environments. Students may feel compelled to participate in bullying behavior to avoid becoming a target themselves or to gain social status.

2. Cheating. The pressure to excel academically can sometimes drive students to cheat on exams or assignments, especially when they perceive their peers to be doing the same.

3. Dressing a certain way. Conforming to specific fashion trends or styles can be a form of peer pressure, with students feeling compelled to dress in a manner that aligns with their peer group's expectations.

4. Smoking and drinking. Smoking and underage drinking is often influenced by peer pressure, as students may feel pressured to participate in social activities where alcohol and cigarettes are present to fit in.

5. Engaging in destructive behaviors. Some students may face pressure to engage in destructive behaviors as a means of proving their loyalty to a peer group or seeking excitement.

6. Only socializing with a certain group. Exclusivity within peer groups can create pressure for students to limit their social interactions to a specific clique, potentially leading to feelings of isolation or exclusion.
‍

‍

Now, have you or someone you care about faced situations like these before? Dealing with peer pressure can feel overwhelming, but it's important to know that there are ways to develop a healthier way of interacting with others. Let's explore some strategies that can empower you to handle social situations at school with greater ease and self-assurance.

1. Take your time. If you are feeling rushed to make a decision, take a moment to breathe and think it over. It's okay to tell the other person you need some time to consider their request. Putting a little space between you and the situation can make it easier to resist pressure.

2. Consider your reasons. When faced with a choice, ask yourself why you're considering it. If you're only thinking of doing something because everyone else is, it might be worth reconsidering. You deserve to be around people who respect your choices, not ones who pressure you into things you're not comfortable with.

3. Set boundaries. It's important to establish healthy boundaries in your relationships. If someone keeps pressuring you, let them know how it makes you feel. For example, you could say, “I really appreciate you including me, but I’m not comfortable with this. I hope you understand. Maybe we can find something else to do together that we would both enjoy.”

4. Offer an alternative. Sometimes, friends pressure you because they want to spend time with you but don't know how to ask. If they're pushing you to do something you're not keen on, suggest a different activity that you both enjoy. Finding middle ground can strengthen your bond without compromising your values.

5. Talk to an adult. If you're feeling overwhelmed by peer pressure, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult like a teacher or guidance counselor. They can provide support and even intervene if necessary to ensure your well-being at school.

6. Seek professional help. If you've tried everything but still find peer pressure affecting you, seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist can be beneficial. They can offer strategies tailored to your specific situation.

‍

As we wrap up, remember this: resisting peer pressure is not just about saying "no" to others; it's about saying "yes" to yourself. It's about finding the courage to stay true to your goals and values, even when others may try to sway you in a different direction. And it's not just about standing firm against negative influences; it's also about surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek out those who encourage you to be the best version of yourself and who celebrate your uniqueness. Also, let's not forget to extend that kindness to others as well. We all have the power to influence those around us, so let's use it for good. Let's be the ones who inspire positivity and growth, rather than contributing to negativity and pressure.

As you journey beyond the school gates into adulthood, know that there may be even greater pressures awaiting you. But armed with the strength and wisdom you've gained, you can face them head-on. Together, let's work towards creating environments where everyone feels safe to be themselves—where schools truly feel like home.

‍