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