Peer Pressure and Refusal Skills Chapter 8 Lesson 2

Warm Up Karen and Ann met at tryouts for the school gymnastics team. The coach gave each girl a list of fitness tips to prepare for the tryouts. The tips included eating a low-fat diet, getting enough sleep, stretching before each workout, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol use. On the way home, Ann pulled a pack of cigarettes out of her bag and offered one to Karen. Karen doesn’t like smoking and really wants to make the team. What could Karen say to Ann? Write your explanation in a brief paragraph

Positive Negative Peer Pressure The influence that people your age may have on you. Positive Peer Pressure Negative Peer Pressure Inspiring you to try a new activity Participate in community projects Volunteering NOT participating in risky behaviors Harassment – persistently annoying others (name calling, teasing, bullying). Manipulation – indirect dishonest way to control or influence other people

Methods of Manipulation Making threats Blackmail Mocking or teasing Guilt trips Bargaining Flattery Bribing

3 Styles of Communication Assertive - state your position, stand your ground, while acknowledging the rights of others Aggressive – overly forceful, pushy, or hostile Passive – unwilling or unable to express thoughts or feelings in a direct, firm manner

Assertive Refusal Refusal skills are communication strategies that can help you say no when you are urged to take part in behaviors that are unsafe or unhealthy, or go against your values. Step 1: state your position Step 2: suggest alternatives Step 3: stand your ground