Ways to Handle Peer Pressure

Walk away from a bad/dangerous situation
Make the decision for yourself as to what you do
Think ahead about the outcome of your actions — can you live with the consequences?
Avoid those people who might lead you to do things you don’t want to do
Hang with friends who have the same values
Find friends who have a good reputation
Identify those negative behaviors that peer pressure might lead you to try:
- Drugs
- Smoking
- Drinking
- Sex
- Stealing

Talk to your parents about limits (especially if they haven’t initiated it)
Determine whom you are willing to hurt or lose (peer pressure always puts you in the middle)
Use others to help fight peer pressure, but don’t completely rely on others
Spend time with many different people/groups; not just one group of friends
Set your lifetime goals and stay focused
Realize that everything you do in life impacts the future
When dating, spend time in groups rather than as a couple
Choose a best friend with the same Christian values and beliefs as you
Don’t compare yourself to others — you never win!
Remember that Christ died for you and that you are special
Being “cool” is being yourself!
Recall fads and peer pressure from years past to realize how foolish they can sometimes be
Identify that peer pressure seems to be a friend at first, but turns into a bitter enemy
Use humor to say “no”
Be honest and say that although your friendship with someone is important, you don’t feel comfortable
Blame your parents! “My mom/dad wouldn’t be happy if I did that!”
Say “I promised I’d never do that, and I want to be true to my word.”
Say “Sorry, I’ve got to go now” and leave immediately
Simply and firmly say “No”
Realize that others will pressure you to act, but you alone live with the consequences
If possible, have a cell phone with you to call a loved one in cases of emergency