Research on Peer Influence and Substance Use in Teens

A meta-analysis study published in Current Psychology looked at how much teenagers are influenced by their friends when it comes to using substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. It found that teens often follow their peers’ behaviors — whether that means increasing or decreasing their own use.

Among the substances studied, alcohol use was the most strongly linked to peer influence. One reason for this is that drinking alcohol is more socially acceptable and widespread among teens. On the other hand, tobacco had the weakest link. Fewer teens are smoking these days, so there are fewer opportunities for peer influence to happen in this area.

It is also interesting to note that teens are more influenced by what they think their friends are doing rather than what their friends are actually doing. This shows that perceptions and assumptions about peer behavior can be just as powerful — if not more so — than the actual behaviors themselves.

Understanding the Research

The study used a clear five-step process to review and analyze data. First, it created research questions and searched online databases for studies about teen substance use and peer influence.

Out of 508 reports found, the team used a tool called Covidence to pick studies that fit their goals. They chose studies that followed teens aged 10–19 over time, and looked at alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, or combined substance use.

Here is a breakdown of the results:

• Peer influence - Teens are more likely to use substances like alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana if their friends use them.
• Long-term impact - The influence of peers is stronger over time. Meaning, the longer teens are around peers using substances, the more likely they are to be influenced.
• Type of substance - Peer influence varies depending on the type of substance (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, marijuana). It had the strongest effect on alcohol and mixed substance use (which includes different types of substances). Tobacco had the smallest effect size, meaning that peer influence had the least impact on whether teens used tobacco compared to other substances.
• Other factors involved - Age, gender, and the time between measurements did not make a big difference in the results. When looking at all factors together, none seemed to have a stronger effect. (Although previous studies suggested that peer influence might differ between boys and girls, this analysis found that the differences were not strong enough to matter.)

Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

Considering how much teens look to their friends for guidance and approval during adolescence, parents can help them choose good friends and stay away from harmful influences.

Here are key tips for parents and caregivers moving forward:

Have discussions about peer pressure and substance use

Explain how peer pressure works and more importantly, how they can respond. Let them know that it comes in different forms, such as a friend offering them a drink or saying, “Just try it — it’s no big deal.” Tell them that comments like, “Everyone does it,” or teasing them for not participating can also influence their decisions.

Discuss the short-term and long-term consequences of substance use, such as impaired judgment that lead to accidents or harm to their developing brains. Here’s a handout that teaches tips on how to cope with peer pressure.

Keep your relationship strong and supportive

A healthy bond between you and your teen can reduce their chances of engaging in risky behaviors. They feel safe talking to you and sharing their struggles. This allows you to guide them before they make poor decisions.

It is also true that close relationships with parents act as a buffer against external pressures like peer influence. Because they feel connected at home, they’re less likely to seek validation from others.

Get to know your teens’ friends

Getting to know their friends is an important part of learning about their social environment.

Invite them over to your home during casual get-togethers, game days, or pizza parties. These are opportunities to interact with them in a relaxed manner and get a sense of their personalities.

As you try to understand their friendships, remember to be curious, not critical. However, if you notice red flags among your teen’s friends, you can intervene early by discussing positive friendships and boundaries.

The researchers are suggesting that future studies should also look into specific environments that promote risky behaviors in order to prevent substance use.

Looking for ways to support your teen in making positive choices against substance use? Check out our Healthy Habits Posters, Social Skills Posters, and Self-Esteem Worksheets!