Peer Pressure Copyright © ict-worksheets.co.uk

If I hear them say one more time……. People are always telling me not to give in to peer pressure and not to just follow the crowd If I hear them say one more time……. "If one of your friends jumped off a bridge would you jump too?” I am going to scream! Isn't it OK to go along with your friends some of the time?

When we think of peer pressure we always think of it in terms of being “BAD” Others may put pressure on us to: SMOKE DRINK FIGHT

We rarely think of the many “GOOD” ways that peer pressure can influence us For social development it is important that we do learn to "follow the crowd sometimes" This is how we learn acceptable social norms; that is, how we are expected to act in the world in order to be good people

Disappointed in yourself Everyone gives in to peer pressure at some stage in their life. When this happens you can sometimes feel: Anxious Down Moody Inadequate Unhappy Disappointed in yourself

REASONS why we give in to peer pressure are: Fear of losing your friends Not wanting to upset someone Might get bullied or taunted Feel the pressure is too much to say NO

Your friends might have done it Do you ever feel like those around you are pushing you into having sex? Your friends might have done it Your boyfriend or girlfriend are always talking about it You’ve heard lots about it on TV and in Films Magazine’s articles are always discussing it

Take the RIGHT STEPS to consider what’s best for you! Take your time to understand what sex is all about Make your own choices and don’t just do what others want Not all teenagers who say they’ve had sex are telling the truth Fancying someone doesn’t mean you have to have sex with them Lot’s of boys and girl’s have the same anxieties – you’re not alone You don’t have to rush into having sex because you feel pressured It’s to say NO

Learn the difference between following the crowd and blindly following the crowd It takes a person of great character and self confidence to work peer pressure the right way!

Be strong and remember you don’t have to: Wear the same clothes as your friends Have a boyfriend or girlfriend Drink Take Drugs Smoke Have sex before you’re ready Bully others just to fit in Give up friends to please others Bunk off school

If it makes you feel bad, it usually is bad for you! THINK before you choose to follow the crowd A good rule is this ... If it makes you feel bad, it usually is bad for you!