Peer pressure can be intense, but it's not impossible to handle. Here are some tips for how to manage peer pressure in positive ways:

Now you might be wondering if it's all bad. The answer to this question depends on what type of peer pressure you're talking about.

Direct and indirect are two ways to categorize how social influence works. Direct refers to people who exert direct pressure on your decision-making—they may coerce or manipulate you into doing something by using threats or force. Indirect uses more subtle methods, such as persuasion and manipulation, so that the people don't even realize they're being pressured.

There is no shame in feeling pressured. Peer pressure happens to everyone. The important thing is that you learn how to overcome it and make good decisions for yourself.

Be honest with yourself about what you want, what your limits are, and what makes sense for you. If your friends want to go to an after-school party but it's not something that interests or excites you, be assertive by saying no!

Ask for help from trusted adults if necessary – let them know when someone is pressuring you into doing something that doesn't feel right. Your parents or guardians can talk with teachers at school who might have more experience handling such situations.

Accept that your peers will try to pressure you.

Be aware of the reasons why they're doing so. If everyone is trying to get you to do something, it's possible they have their own agenda—whether that be getting revenge or just being mean. They may be trying to make themselves look better by making you look worse in comparison. Whatever the reason for their peer pressure, don't feel like it means anything about yourself as a person.*

Say no calmly if necessary. Saying, "No, thanks" can be enough for others to realize there's no need for further argument, but other times people may want more than just an answer. They might want an explanation from which they can formulate another argument. It's important when dealing with these kinds of situations that we remain calm and collected. Remember: even though people are being rude right now doesn't mean they won't suddenly become nice tomorrow...or later today after school ends.

Remember, peer pressure is a form of social influence that can potentially lead to harmful behavior or negative health outcomes. We all need to be able to identify and avoid it as much as possible and it is okay to ask for help!