As your child gets older, the chance of peer pressure affecting them grows. This is due to them wanting approval from their friends rather than their parents which can lead to them taking part in risky and abnormal activities. This can include cheating in exams, shoplifting, taking part in drugs and alcohol and lastly sexual activity. Not only can it be things that your child feels uncomfortable taking part in, but they can also send them down a downward spiral that can affect their education. Here is some advice on teaching your child to resist peer pressure when times get tough.
Try and not overreact when your child comes to you to talk about things. When your child mentioned something that their friends have been up to, they may discuss things that upset you. However, if you resort to lecturing and shouting at them, there is a big chance that your child will not bring up these issues with you again. Try and stay as calm as possible without yelling and use these moments to get your child thinking about consequences to the behaviours of their friends.
Always talk about what makes a true friend. If your child is surrounding themselves with people who make them feel bad about not taking part in activities they feel uncomfortable in, bring to light that this is not a true friend would do. Help your child understand that someone who pressures them into doing something dangerous, hurtful or even illegal is not someone who truly cares about them.
Teach your child how to say no. When your child is able to set clear limits to what they are happy to do and not do, not only will they be treated with more respect but they will not be pressured into doing anything that they feel uncomfortable doing.
