Alex's Answer

Hi there, 

How are you? You have asked a very interesting question, thank you for getting in touch.  

Peer pressure can come in many forms. Generally, we see peer pressure as feeling pressured to behave or look a certain way or to take part in an activity that we may not want to be involved in because others (our peers) are doing it. You can learn more about peer pressure here: https://www.childline.ie/peer-pressure-and-fitting-in/  

Being aware that what you are experiencing is indeed peer pressure is a good thing and having the ability to recognise that you are feeling pressurised to do something that you are not happy with, indicates a great level of self-awareness – that’s a terrific quality to have. 

It’s hard to remove yourself from the situation without feeling like you are drawing attention to yourself.  Sometimes deflection can work. In situations where you are feeling pressured, and you could try to distract your peers by changing topic. Remember, there maybe someone else in the group that is feeling the same way and they may be grateful for your topic change and help you get the conversation moving in that direction. 

As mentioned above, when it comes to peer pressure, self-awareness is essential, and so is the ability to establish boundaries with your friends around what it is you are and are not comfortable doing. Saying the little, but powerful word “NO” might help. We know it’s a hard thing to say sometimes, as is going against what those around you are doing. It may be helpful to have a closer look at your friend group. We all deserve to be surrounded by people who respect us and our decisions and views. You can learn more about these tips here: https://www.childline.ie/how-to-deal-with-peer-pressure-among-your-friends/  

Another great thing to do is to talk about your experiences, thoughts and feelings. Talking really helps, and it’s highly likely that there are people in your circle that will care about you and would like to hear what you wish to say. Maybe think about who it is you can have the chat with, a coach, teacher, a family member about your questions around peer pressure. 

If you can’t think of anyone in your day-to-day life to chat to, that’s ok, there is an amazing team here at Childline who will listen to you, without any judgement and we won’t tell you what to do, but we will listen to you about what is going on for you. 

The Childline team can be contacted a few ways including via our website (https://www.childline.ie/), by sending a text to 50101 or you can call on 1800 66 66 66. We would love to hear from you, and we are available to you free, 24 hours a day. 

Take care of you, 

Alex.