As a student, you are exposed to a wide range of experiences and influences from others. You must navigate your journey at university by understanding the difference between positive and negative peer pressure. Knowing your boundaries can help you create a healthy social environment.
Addressing The Problem
Peers are members of the same social group, so the term “peer pressure” refers to the influence that peers can have on one another. Peer pressure can be classified as either positive or negative. Negative peer pressure is a major issue among university students since it can cause personality changes and have an influence on your mental health.
Types Of Peer Pressure
People frequently believe that peer pressure is solely linked with drinking and drug use. As a young person, though, you may be subjected to a number of types of pressure. For example, you may be labelled ‘boring’ if you choose to spend a cosy night in your flat, or you may be encouraged to skip that library session to hang out with your friends even though you have a huge deadline coming up. Perhaps you’ve been persuaded to attend a house party with people you don’t know.
Peer pressure does not always take the form of a verbal threat or use of force. It might also come from a mental source. As a new student, you may want to fit in by smoking like everyone else in your house to impress, have more social time with them, or fit in.
What Can You Do About It…
It Is Okay To Say “NO”
Saying no saves you the trouble of having to cope with future peer pressure since it sends a clear message that you’re not interested. It’s alright to say no if you’re put in an uncomfortable situation. You are your own person, with your feelings and thought processes, therefore never be afraid to decline opportunities that do not benefit you.
Talk To Your Friends And Family From Home
Keep in contact with relatives and friends back at home. These individuals will most likely share your beliefs and ideals, so express your true feelings to them. They will be able to provide you with guidance while you are at university.
Develop A Positive Social Environment
It is critical to meet people who share your beliefs and ideals at university. These people will share your interests, which means you may have a good influence on each other. For example, if a friend is dedicated to performing well in their course or for society and sports socials, it may inspire you to be more goal-directed. Peers who are kind, loyal, or supportive might motivate you to be the same.
Try Out New And Safe Experiences
Being at university exposes you to a wide range of new and exciting experiences. If you are comfortable doing so, try things out with your peers. It is totally up to you. Changing your environment and having new experiences may have a beneficial impact on you and help you build your character.
Final Thoughts
Changing your surroundings and trying new things can be beneficial, but only if you are comfortable with them and they are beneficial to you. Above all, don’t be afraid to say “no!”
