Peer Pressure Pointers
Posted: November 14, 2019Though it’s a force to be reckoned with throughout our lives, peer pressure is arguably the most in-your-face during the school years. Don’t let your kids fall victim to peer pressure. This month’s goal: Teach your kids that peer pressure can make us do absurd things and spend ridiculous amounts of money, but that it can be overcome with confidence and self-discipline.
Pointers to cover:
- The definition of peer pressure.
- How peer pressure influences our choices.
- When peer pressure can be a positive thing.
- How going against the flow shows true inner strength.
- The fleeting nature of most fads.
Conversation starters
For kids under age 9:
- Can you think of something you own just because one of your friends has one, too?
- When is it a good idea to follow the crowd?
- Everyone wants to fit in. How can you be part of the group without copying everything they do, buy or say?
For kids over age 9:
- Can you think of some ways peer pressure exists for adults?
- Do you think more or less of someone who is always copying what everyone else is doing?
- Has anyone ever followed what you did, bought or wore? How did that make you feel?
- Who do you think is more confident, someone who copies what others do or someone who thinks for themselves?
- Can you think of some circumstances when peer pressure can be a positive thing?
- How do you think our lives would be different if we didn’t care what other people thought of our choices?