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Peer Pressure

Peers are the persons we normally spend time with and we are able to identify with. Among young children and teenagers, they are usually friends of the same age, schoolmates or children who live in the same neighborhood. Peers among adults can be found among co-workers, church members, and members of certain societies and clubs, etc.
Peer pressure is the phenomenon where a person is persuaded directly or by implied means to comply and be in agreement with other individuals who belong to the same group. This phenomenon exists at all groups. It is often used, whether intentionally or otherwise, as a persuasive force to make a person adopt the same beliefs, goals and values in order to be part of the group and to be permitted to participate in their activities.

The effect of peer pressure on a person can be positive or negative. Sometimes, peer pressure can make a person do things against his or her beliefs. It can be used negatively, for example, to incite hatred, purchase unwanted things and develop bad habits like smoking and uncontrolled drinking. Peer pressure can also bring about positive effects, like in improving an individual’s academic results. This is if the individual associates with the right group of friends who, for example encourage each other in their studies.