Adolescence is the time when the need to fit in is the greatest. Teens are vulnerable to peer pressure because they don’t know about the world neither they see the bigger picture. A survey reveals that 71% of high school teen boys and girls try alcohol before they graduate. Using drugs, alcohol, having sex or other types of ‘bad’ behavior can cause the most problems for those who have little or no interest in these things and are feeling pressured to engage in such behavior. It is especially hard for them to resist peer pressure at a teenage house party when everyone around them is drinking, using drugs or indulging in some other form of unacceptable behavior. In recent times it is not just the traditional peer pressure that has been influencing teens. Research tells digital peer pressure is having more impact on teens than ever before. 45% of respondents said they had seen pictures of their peers on Facebook drinking or using drugs.

Peer pressure and teens

Peers and their behavior greatly impact the perceptions of teens. Their opinions of what is ‘normal’ behavior depend a lot on peer validation. They stop on nothing to fit in and this includes drinking, substance abuse and having sex. 75% of teens who saw pictures of their peers using drugs and alcohol said they felt encouraged to do these things too. 47% of them said the people in these pictures looked like they were having fun.

How can parents handle it?

It is not enough to tell your teen boy or girl to avoid drinking, drugs and other ‘bad’ things without telling them how to do it. What can your teen do when they are handed a beer to drink? What should their response be when there are teenagers partying?

Firstly make clear the things you are comfortable with your teen doing and things that you are not. Brainstorm with your teen about the responses they can give when they find themselves stuck in such a situation. Tell them that you’re ready to support them in every way possible.

Tell them it’s ok to say no at times. Teach them ways to say no to things they don’t feel comfortable about doing. Teach these different ways to say ‘no’:

• No thanks.
• I don’t feel like it—do you have any soda?
• Alcohol’s NOT my thing.
• Are you talking to me? FORGET it.
• Why do you keep pressuring me when I’ve said NO?
• Back off!