Peer pressure is a powerful force. It is one of the most effective ways to change someone’s behavior. While peer pressure can lead to positive behaviors, it can also influence you to engage in harmful behaviors like excessive drinking or drug use. Learning to stand up to peer pressure can protect you from its potent effects.
Peer pressure and substance abuse can quickly lead to addiction. If you are feeling pressured to use drugs or alcohol or you know someone who is, reach out to My 5 Palms at 1.844.675.1022 for support. Our individual therapy program will provide the tools to stand your ground and become more resilient to peer pressure.
What Is Peer Pressure?
Your peer group typically consists of others in the same age range and social circle. Peer pressure is feeling influenced to do things you usually would not do, such as:
- Engaging in certain activities
- Dressing a certain way
- Speaking a certain way
When your peers do any of the above, you may copy their behavior to be liked or accepted by them. You may also try to conform to avoid standing out and being subject to ridicule or rejection.
What Are the Types of Peer Pressure?
Not all types of peer pressure are harmful or noticeable. Here are the primary types of peer pressure you must know as you move through daily living.
1. Indirect Peer Pressure
Indirect peer pressure is a form of social influence in which you are not explicitly told to do something. Instead, the pressure is implied or suggested through subtle actions or comments. Indirect peer pressure can be positive, negative, spoken, or unspoken.
2. Direct Peer Pressure
Direct peer pressure is the most obvious form of influence. It can be when your friend asks you to do something or not do something. For example, if a group of friends is going out drinking and they ask you to come along, you might feel pressured even though you do not feel like consuming alcohol.
3. Positive Peer Pressure
Positive peer pressure can be a good thing. It can motivate you to achieve your goals or inspire you to be a better person. A positive role model can expose you to opportunities for positive peer pressure. For example, having friends who prioritize their studies can encourage you to be a better student. Or becoming friendly with coworkers who put in their best effort at work can also influence you to give your all.
4. Negative Peer Pressure
Negative peer pressure is when you are pressured to do something potentially harmful that you do not want to do. One example is having friends insist you go out for late-night drinks with them even though you must be up early for work the next day.
5. Spoken Peer Pressure
In spoken peer pressure, your peers tell you to do or not do something. It can be difficult to resist if you do not have strong self-esteem. If you are unsure of your opinions or abilities, it is easier to give in and do what others want, even if it hurts you.
6. Unspoken Peer Pressure
Unspoken peer pressure is more subtle but can be just as manipulative as spoken or direct peer pressure. If you go out to a restaurant with friends and everyone orders an alcoholic drink, you may also feel pressured to order one.
Stand Up to All Types of Peer Pressure and Find Addiction Treatment in Florida at My 5 Palms
What are the types of peer pressure? It doesn’t matter—whatever type of peer pressure you experience, managing the situation is not always as easy as saying “no.” Sometimes, your peers will not accept no as an answer and will continue to urge you to conform to their wishes. At My 5 Palms, we can help you stand up to peer pressure by increasing your self-esteem and confidence. Contact My 5 Palms today at 1.844.675.1022 to learn more.
