Understanding how peer pressure can affect the mental wellbeing of children and young people Peer pressure is a powerful force and it affects all of us no matter how young or old we may be. Most people want to fit in socially and to do this we tend to mirror behaviours that are often not explicitly talked about. Peer pressure can be very positive – for example, conforming to safe and healthy behaviour or feeling motivated to work hard. Equally and in particular in larger environments such as schools, peer pressure can manifest itself in bullying behaviours. These are often linked to drinking alcohol, drug use and negative body image.

The effects of such behaviours can decrease self-confidence, self-worth and provoke distancing from family members and friends. Research shows that there is a direct, positive correlation between peer pressure and depression in young people. Depression at its worst can lead to suicidal ideation, self-harm and other harmful behaviours. There is also research evidence to show that peer pressure is a predictor for increased stress levels, anxiety and sleep issues.

Social media tends to complicate issues relating to peer pressure. It means that a young person’s peer group has continuous access to them, outside of the normal school day. Peer pressure-related posts may include images of unrealistic lifestyles or body image, risky behaviour and alcohol and drug use. This is one of the reasons that, The Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel De Souza is currently campaigning for changes to the age at which children can access social media- particularly through smartphones.

For parents

The first signs that their child is being subjected to negative peer pressure might include:

• Unexpected mood changes or withdrawal from family life;

• Unwillingness to go to school- particularly after a weekend;

• Uncharacteristic behaviours with siblings- perhaps aggression.

School staff might notice

• Sudden changes to attendance and attitudes in class;

• Changes in behaviour which might include bullying or taking unhealthy risks;

• Evidence of alcohol or drug use.

Working together

Parents and school staff can and should work together when there are concerns about the impact of peer pressure:

• Sharing concerns;

• Ensuring that children and young people are educated about the issues and know whom they can talk to if they have concerns;

• Sharing their own experiences and talking about the way that they managed them;

• Teaching all children and young people how to set boundaries and to say NO!