Peer pressure is one of the topics that many parents fear. It makes them think of losing control over their teens. What these parents fail to understand is that facing this issue of peer pressure in the early stage can prove very health in the lives of their teens.
Research has shown that peer pressure is the major contributor in many teen vices such as smoking, deterioration in academics, teen drinking, and generally substances abuse. We cannot say that peer pressure is entirely negative as there are some aspects of it that prove positive in the lives of many teens.
Peer pressure in teens
Alienation from the family
One of the major effects of peer pressure is that it alienate the teens from their family. What does this mean? It simply means that instead of the child keeping close to his or her parents, they will choose other companies of their choice. This is very dangerous as it will make them feel that their parents are an obstacle in their achieving best relationship with their peers. It this habit that leads to teen repulsion.
Losing interest in education
It is said that education is the key to life. Can you imagine your teen refusing to study? What does it mean? It probably means a ruined life. This is how destructive peer pressure could be. However, this does not just happen; it happens when your teen gets into the company of those people who does not understand the value of education.
Negative behaviours
Negative behaviors, in this case, is a wide term that is used to refer to all vices that your kid can engage in when in the company of bad teens. This negative behaviors and habits make the teen disrespect their parents and finally, the lives succumb to negativity. Some of these behaviors that young people may find themselves in due to peer pressure includes indulgence in smoking, early sexual activities which can result in unwanted pregnancies and transmission of STDs, alcohol and substances abuse.
On the hand, peer pressure can also have some positive effects on the youths. So this, therefore, means that the company that your teens associate with is critical as it can either impact negatively or positively on your kid. Some of the positive impacts of peer pressure include;development in communication skills improved academic performances, developed and helpful human skills. With all this information, as a parent, you have a responsibility to watch over the company that your teens choose.