We've all experienced peer pressure(同伴压力). It happens to everybody. However, people have different reactions. Confident people refuse to do things they don't want to do, but shy and anxious people often give in. It may be because they want to be liked. It may be because they worry that their friends will make fun of them, or perhaps they're just curious about trying something new.
It's hard being the only one who says no and the question is:how do you do it? If you think that missing maths, or smoking, or going somewhere you know your parents wouldn't like is a bad idea, then the answer is simple:don't do it. It's your decision, nobody else's. You don't need to be aggressive. You don't need to shout and scream, but you must be confident and you must be firm. You need to say, "No, thanks. I don't want to do that. "
Being on your own against everybody else is very hard, so it can really help to have at least one other peer, or friend, who will say no too. You want friends who will support you when you're in trouble. You don't want people who will always agree with the majority. Remember, the most popular people aren't always the most trustworthy.
You can learn a lot from people of your own age. They can teach you great football skills or the best way to do your maths homework. They can recommend music and advise you on fashion. And don't forget you can tell them things too, and that always feels great. So, find friends who have similar interests. And remember, friendship isn't about feeling depressed and guilty.
A. Choose your friends carefully. B. Firstly, you must decide what you believe in. C. It's about sharing experiences and having fun. D. Of course, peer pressure isn't completely bad. E. It may be because they were all born to be stubborn. F. Depression and guilt will surely give you peer pressure. G. Whatever the reason, some people end up doing things they really don't want to. |