What is peer pressure? Peer pressure is when we are influenced to do something we wouldn't normally do because we want to fit in with other people or be accepted by our peers (A a peer is someone you look up to (a friend, someone in the community, or even someone on TV). How does peer pressure affect me? Peer pressure can have both a positive and negative influence and will challenge us to do things, regardless of whether they are right or wrong. This is up to you to determine. Peer pressure can affect different areas of your life such as; your academic performance, who you choose as a friend, can influence who you choose as a boyfriend or girlfriend, it can influence decisions about sex, it can change your feelings about alcohol and drug use, and it can even determine your fashion choice. Why do people give in to peer pressure? Although it is different in many ways from high school, in college there is still pressure to "fit in" and to be liked by others. There is often peer pressure to do things you wouldn't normally do "because this is college" and you're trying to meet new friends. While going to Wal-Mart at 3am or staying up late with friends while trying to eat your weight in cookie dough, maybe fun new things to try, driving blindfolded due to a challenge of a fraternity or trying cocaine "because this is college" and definitely not good choices. Listen to your common sense. For some people the peer pressure can come directly from you, this could be because you feel different from everyone else, even if they don't suggest you join. Other times groups of friends may have certain activities and habits to do together. If you find that hanging out with people who tend to do things you wouldn't normally do and you feel unaccepted unless you follow through with them, "get out" so you don't fall into the pressure to "fit in" What can I do about it and who can I turn to for support? You might first try taking responsibility for yourself and doing what you feel is best for you, try letting this group know that you are fun to be around even if you don't participate in all the same activities as them. It's okay to be an individual. Things to do to manage peer pressure: • just say “no” • stick to what you think is right