Peer pressure is the influence to behave, think, or make choices to fit in with a group. It can affect anyone, anywhere, but young people are especially vulnerable and experience it in school, within friendships, and even at home. Learning to manage peer pressure is important, but it takes time, practice, and confidence to stand up for oneself.
The How to Cope with Peer Pressure handout shows what peer pressure looks like and provides strategies for dealing with it, such as saying “no” and planning ahead of time. It also lists tips to build self-esteem, which includes understanding personal values and choosing friends wisely.
Using this handout helps kids and teens gain emotional strength, which enables them to make better choices. Caring adults can support this growth with simple routines that allow them to make their own choices about everyday matters.
Encouraging daily reflections on personal values can also help them stay grounded when facing peer pressure.
This handout pairs nicely with our 2-page Peer Pressure worksheets.
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References:
- Brown, B. B. (1982). The extent and effects of peer pressure among high school students: A retrospective analysis. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 11(2), 121-133. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf01834708
- Gülay Ogelman, H., & Kahveci, D. (2024). Coping with peer pressure and social emotional well-being in preschool children. International Journal of Educational Spectrum, 6(2), 191-203. https://doi.org/10.47806/ijesacademic.1409535
- Moldes, V. M., L. Biton, C. L., Gonzaga, D. J., & Moneva, J. C. (2019). Students, peer pressure and their academic performance in school. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications (IJSRP), 9(1), p8541. https://doi.org/10.29322/ijsrp.9.01.2019.p8541
