Dealing With Peer Pressure In College

Discover the important thing about peer pressure is that it can sometimes be positive, but other times it can be a bad influence in our lives.

Updated May 18, 2023 ยท 2 Min Read

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Peer Pressure Can Be Tough To Handle

Peer pressure can be tough to deal with, especially when you are a teenager or in your college years. The desire to fit in and feel like you are part of a group is completely normal, and most people feel this way their entire lives. The important thing about peer pressure is that it can sometimes be positive, but other times it can be a bad influence in our lives. Combating the pressure of your peers can be challenging but it's essential that you know what your own personal values are and where you stand about certain things.


Fighting Peer Pressure

One of the ways you can fight peer pressure is to be involved in a group of friends who are focused on their schooling, and even join a club or sports team. Stay busy and avoid parties where you think drinking and drugs might be involved. Instead, order a pizza and have some friends over for a movie night. Pressure can be in the form of drug or alcohol use, sexual pressure, the pressure to do something wrong like commit vandalism, or even something like bullying.

The Difference With College

When you're in college, it can be harder to avoid peer pressure since you're on your own, an adult, and maybe even living away from home. Your parents are no longer there to watch over you, and ultimately you will be responsible for the decisions you make. If you ever feel pressured to do something you don't like or do not want to do, simply tell the person pressuring you "thanks but no thanks" and move on. If you end up in a situation where you feel uncomfortable, graciously leave the situation and go home. If you're involved in a more complicated or even dangerous situation, talk to an adult you trust like your parents, your professor, or even the police if you feel the need. You can always stay anonymous if you go to the police. Always remember that you will deal with the consequences of your own actions, so avoiding peer pressure is a good way to stay out of trouble and keep your life on track.

Resources On Dealing With College Peer Pressure

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