Signs of peer pressure

The following are warning signs that you or someone you know may be experiencing peer pressure:

• Drop in school performance, skipping classes or cheating
• Spends more time with a new group of friends
• Changes in clothing style or color, jewelry and makeup
• Becomes more secretive, withdrawn or sullen
• Receives calls at odd hours or spends more time on the computer
• Asks to go places or do activities that never interested him or her before
• Changes in attitude, tone and mannerisms
• Increased irritability
• Reckless or irresponsible behavior that is out of character
• Substance or tobacco use
• Depression or anxiety
• Expressing a feeling of not fitting in with peers

References

• http://resources.uknowkids.com/blog/7-obvious-signs-your-teen-is-suffering-from-peer-pressure
• https://www.aacap.org/aacap/families_and_youth/facts_for_families/fff-guide/peer-pressure-104.aspx

If you notice the signs of peer pressure, it is important to reach out to a trusted adult right away. Talking to a school counselor at your school is a good first step.

• Alcohol & other drug services
• Gangs & violence
• If you witness peer pressure
• Mental health providers
• Ways to resist peer pressure