A Number Of Ways Teens Face Peer Pressure In High School

Peer pressure is not just a buzz phrase. Studies have shown that the urge to act in certain ways in front of others is a hardwired part of our brains that never goes away entirely. Even adults can be prone to behaving recklessly in order to impress friends, neighbors, colleagues or love interests. But the most prominent time when peer pressure is convincing is during the teen years, progressively more so up until about age fourteen and continuing to taper off from there. You may be seeing a correlation with the actions of your teenager that could be explained by peer pressure and the temptations it provides. Here are four ways your teen is likely to be pressured during these formative years. By being aware of these peer pressure tactics, you will be more equipped to help them navigate those murky waters and stay healthy and safe.

“Dude, It Isn’t Even Bad”

What does a little marijuana matter? Or a peer? Or just trying a cigarette? Everyone has a vape nowadays, it is totally safe! These are some of the reasoning statements commonly made by teens about different activities your child may be offered. The idea that things aren’t bad, or that they are fine in moderation, may be true for an adult. But not for a teenager with a still developing brain.

“You're Being A Wuss”

Being a teen is hard, especially when you want to fit in. Refusing to take part in risky activities when others are is a big step towards standing their ground. When the insults start flying it can be much harder to stay strong. Especially if that person doing the insulting is someone they really like or want to impress.

“If We Were Really Friends, You Would”

Another difficult one to combat, the threat of an end of a relationship may be used to pressure your child into cooperating. This is similar to someone stating that if you loved them you would do ‘x’. It is an abusive tactic and your teen should know that anyone who uses it isn’t really their friend.

“I’m Going to Do It”

Sometimes no pressure has to be applied at all. Just seeing a friend taking part in an activity could be enough to convince your teen to try. Peer pressure can be unspoken. Your teen could be making some risky decisions and you might not know where to turn. It may be time to get some professional help. Find out more at Liahona Academy.