An image of 3 boys socialising
Peer pressure is feeling like you have to go along with something because your friends are doing it.

Under pressure

Many young people can experience peer pressure. You may feel pressurised by your friends, by your family, by activity on social media or by others who are close to your age.

Young people can feel under pressure to:​

Behaving in a way that might put you at risk, such as:​​

Look a certain way by:

Bully others by:

Be yourself

It can be hard not to go along with others when you want to fit in.  It might help to remember:

Support is available

If you’re feeling pressurised by others to do things that you’re not comfortable with, or that you don’t like, you can get support. Is there a trusted adult you can talk to about what is happening? This might be a parent, an aunt or uncle or a teacher.

Childline is always here to listen to you and support you. You can contact Childline at any time.

Check these out too:

boundaries
How to set boundaries in different areas of your life
Setting boundaries isn't easy but it's a great skill to have as you navigate life - be it with family, friends or on social media
> Read More
A close-up of a teenage girl looking out leaning her face against her arms.
How to deal with a controlling or aggressive friend
When a friend becomes controlling, manipulative or aggressive, it can be hard to know what action to take to improve the situation
> Read More
A cardboard egg carton with eggs showing different facial expressions such as worry, laughter and a frown drawn with a black marker.
3 ways to stop worrying about what people think of you
Overthinking and worrying about what other people think of us is something we all do. However, some people do it
> Read More