Source: Pexel
By Tofunmi Oyekanmi
The desire to belong is natural, but losing yourself to fit in can come at a heavy cost. Learning how to resist unhealthy influence is one of the most important life skills every young person should develop
Some elderly ones are often of the opinion that the young ones should have less or no worries undermining the great effect that lies in peer pressure. Many people, during their adolescence and young adulthood, are been influenced directly or indirectly. This can be either on a positive term or negative term.
Young Simi, while growing up, tried to seek confidence and self validation from her friends by emulating their lifestyle which had a negative impact on her. Peer pressure this days has often lead to a bad consequence rather than helping people inculcate good morals.
Teenagers now force themselves to fit in to trends they see online, from friends and those around them. This has affected the choices they make ranging from the cloth they wear, how they act down to the manner the manner in which they address people. They can also be influenced into negative behaviour or harming people.
What is Peer Pressure?
Peer pressure is when an individual is influenced by people who are of the same age group or social circle to behave in a certain way. This can occur directly such as people urging someone to do something or indirectly such a person feeling compelled to fit into a lifestyle or trend even if they are not comfortable doing it.
However, peer pressure is not always negative. people can be influenced or prompted into cultivating good behaviour such as studying, respecting elders, participating in community service and encouraging healthy habit.
Effects of Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can lead to many great consequences. Continuous pressure to fit into societal standard can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. It causes many youth to engage in dangerous activities just to fit in.
Some might lose their original identity in the process of trying to be like others. Some might also prioritize the attempt to fit in neglecting their main focus. Low self-esteem can also come in when they fail to meet up to their peers expectations.
How to Handle Peer Pressure
The following are the effective and practical ways to deal with peer pressure.
1. Know your values. Understand what is wrong or right for you.
2. Learn to say no when you are not comfortable with a particular situation or if it doesn't align with your value
3. Choose friends wisely. Avoid groups that encourage bad behaviour. Ensure your friends share the same value with you.
4. Build self confidence. Believe and trust in your ability. This will make you not to be easily swayed.
5. Develop decision making skills. Learn to think before making decisions. Think if any suggestions or idea will benefit you before making decision.
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