|
One of the virtually unavoidable difficulties of being a teenager in today's society is the negative influence, directly or indirectly from actions or words of your peers. In order to manage peer pressure, it is important to learn a few effective life skills beforehand - how to make your own decisions, how to handle yourself in problematic situations, and how to figure out exactly what your values are as an individual.
In fact, to comprehend where your stand morally is an exercise in assessing your own sense of self-worth. Teens with low self-esteem often let others make their decisions for them because sadly they believe that their own opinion is simply not as valid as that of their peers. On the other hand, those teens with high self-esteem trust themselves to make the appropriate choices for their particular circumstances and ethical beliefs.
Between school, activities, and a social life, some teenagers can go weeks without enjoying any quiet time for reflection. The easiest way to learn about your own values is just to make time for you each and every day. Try spending a couple of hours engaging in calming activities like art, music, or writing. If you're not the creative type, take a long walk by yourself or just listen to some music. In doing so, you give yourself a much-needed opportunity to reflect on your thoughts and feelings and to get in touch with your conscience.
Now that you have done some preparation, what should you do when you are in an actual peer pressure situation?
(1) Consider the Situation: Assess where you are, whom you are with, what is going on around you, and how the group is behaving. If any element of these circumstances makes you uncomfortable, be aware that you may be soon face some tough decisions.
(2) Trust Your Senses: Remember time that you spent in developing an idea of what your values are? Now is your opportunity to trust those views and to obey your conscience in the choices that present themselves.
(3) Think about the Consequences of your Decisions: How will you feel tomorrow about the choices you've made today? Will the people who truly care about you be disappointed in your decision? Try consulting someone you trust before taking any hasty actions.
(4) Weigh the Options: Do the positive consequences outweigh the negative ones, or vice versa? Whatever you decide, you must be willing to face up to each and every one of the possible consequences. Don't allow yourself to become swept up in the impulsiveness of the moment.
Although the term peer pressure has developed a negative connotation over the years, it is important to remember that peer pressure is not always a harmful influence. Many youngsters would never get involved in a particular sport, activity, or academic pursuit without some cajoling from their classmates. The key for teens in making smart decisions is to use the same instincts that you would use when receiving positive peer pressure when dangerous influences come knocking.
Youth In Need, a non-profit organization serving the youth and families of eastern Missouri has taken a "strength-based" approach toward helping teens. This method stresses the empowerment of youngsters to solve their own problems. Youth In Need counselors avoid preaching or belittling clients and work to improve situations rather than searching for blame in them. The program offers personalized in-home visits, information and assistance on life needs, and opportunities to share experiences with peers. For more information please contact Youth In Need at (636) 946-0101.
 
|
