How to Deal with Peer Pressure

HOW TO DEAL WITH PEER PRESSURE

To say "no" and make it stick, try this three-step technique. Ask yourself each of these questions, and then look your friend straight in the eye, and confidently state your position:

1. What's the problem?
Be very specific about what is wrong. Give it a name. Say "that's stealing," or "that's dangerous," or "that's mean."

2. What could happen?
a] Could anyone be harmed by it (including you)? How?
b] Could it get you into any kind of trouble? What trouble?
c] Would it make you feel bad about yourself if you did it?

3. What could we do instead?
If you suggest something else to do, it makes it easier for your friend to go along with you. If you can't change your friend's mind, walk away, but let your friend know he or she is welcome to join you. Say something like "I'm going to the park. If you change your mind, come on over."

• Don’t agree to meet the person halfway- giving in a little is still giving in, and it may leave you open to continued peer pressure.
• Use strong body language- look the person in the eye when you are speaking so that you show you are serious.
• If the plan fails, talk to someone you trust. Trusted adults can help you avoid these pressure situations in the future.