High School and Peer Pressure
There are a lot of pressures in school-aged students, some academic, some family related, and others within their own peer groups and in social situations. Being a part of a peer group has a lot of benefits both socially and emotionally, but there are also a great deal of negative impacts of peer pressure both within friend groups as well as within the school community. All age brackets experience peer pressure on various levels, but often times the most difficult time to navigate these pressures is during middle and high school. No longer are pressures just in a classroom, but they now take place before, during and after school as well through the use of social media.
There are several indicators that could put your student more at risk for being susceptible to negative peer pressure
- Low self-importance
- Lack of confidence
- No particular interests or hobbies
- Feeling isolated from family
- Curiousity
- The need to "fit in"
- Being made fun of
(http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1041905/peer-pressure-for-teenagers-during-high-school)
Good news is that there is also positive peer pressure that can be encouraged and supported. "Peer pressure is one of the most effective ways for a teen to practice good behavior and make smart choices in his or her life. Parents and teachers should encourage teens to explore their independence with friends who make good decisions, promoting these kinds of positive peer influences." (http://www.allpsychologycareers.com/topics/peer-pressure.html).
