"Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent." - Eleanor Roosevelt
Peer Pressure
Peers influence your life, even if you don't realize it, just by spending time with you. You learn frmo them, and they learn from you. It's only human nature to listen to and learn from other people in your age group.
Some people give in to peer pressure because they want to be liked, to fit in, or because they worry that other kids may make fun of them if they don't go along with the group. Others may go along because they are curious to try somethign new that others are doing. The idea that "everyone's doing it" may influence some kids to leave their better judgement, or their common sense, behind.
It is tough to be the only one who says "no" to peer pressure, but you can do it. Paying attention to your feelings and beliefs about what is right and wrong can help you know the right thing to do. Inner strength and self-confidence can help you stand firm, walk away, and resist doing something when you know better.
Peer pressure is not always a bad thing. For example, positive peer pressure can be used to pressure bullies into acting better toward other kids. If enough kids get together, peers can pressure each other into doing what's right.
The Cool Spot - This website is a great resource for tips on dealing with peer pressure.
Teen Advice - Advice on how to combat peer pressure.
Reach Out - Contains a fact sheet about peer pressure.