Peer Pressure Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on peer pressure.

Peer pressure can be both negative and positive. Because if a person is a peer pressuring you for a good cause then it is motivation. Motivation is essential for the growth of a person. While peer pressure for a bad cause will always lead you to a disastrous situation.

Peer Pressure Essay

Therefore it necessary for a person to not get influenced by the people around them. They should analyze the outcome of the deed in a strict manner. So that they no may commit anything harmful for themselves. As this world is full of bad people, so you need to be careful before trusting anybody.

Advantages of Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is advantageous in many ways. Most importantly it creates a sense of motivation in the person. Which further forces the person to cross the barrier and achieve something great. Furthermore, it boosts the confidence of a person. Because our brain considers people’s opinions and makes them a priority.

Many salesmen and Entrepreneurs use this technique to influence people to buy their products. Whenever we are in a social meet we always get various recommendations. Therefore when a person gets these recommendations the brain already starts liking it. Or it creates a better image of that thing. This forces the person to buy the product or at least consider it.

This peer pressure technique also works in creating a better character of a person. For instance, when we recommend someone for a particular job, the interviewer already gets a better image of that person. Because he is recommended by a person the interviewer trusts. Therefore there is a great chance of that person to get hired.

Above all the main advantage of peer pressure can be in youth. If a young person gets influenced by an individual or a group of people. He can achieve greater heights in his career.

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Disadvantages of Peer Pressure

There are various disadvantages of peer pressure which can harm a person in many ways. If any person is not willing to perform a task then the peer pressure can be frustrating to him.

Furthermore, peer pressure should not be in an excessive manner. Because it lands a negative impact on the person. A person should be of the mindset of listening to himself first. While considering opinions in favor of him.

Peer pressure in youth from a bad company can lead a person to a nasty situation. Furthermore, it can also hamper a student’s career and studies if not averted. Youth these days are much influenced by the glamorous life of celebrities.

And since they follow them so much, these people become their peers. Thus they do such things that they should not. Drugs and smoking are major examples of this. Moreover most shocking is that the minors are even doing these things. This can have adverse effects on their growth and career.

It is necessary to judge the outcome of a deed before getting influenced by peers. Furthermore, peer pressure should always be secondary. Your own thoughts and wants should always have the first priority.

Q1. What is peer pressure?

A1 . Peer pressure is the influence on people by their peers. As a result, people start following their opinions and lifestyle. Furthermore, it is considering a person or his opinion above all and giving him the priority.

Q2. Which sector of the society is the peer pressure adversely affecting?

A2 . Peer pressure has adverse effects on the youth of society. Some false influencers are playing with the minds of the youngsters. As a result, the youth is going in the wrong direction and ruining their career opportunities.

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Essay on Peer Pressure: 100, 200, and 450 Word Samples in English

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  • Mar 2, 2024

Essay on Peer Pressure

Have you ever done something just because your friends or peers have done it? Say, watched a movie or TV series, visited places, consumed any substance, or academic achievement. This is a classic example of peer pressure. It means you are influenced by your peers or people around you.

peer pressure is beneficial essay

Peer pressure can be both positive and negative, but mostly, it has negative effects. Peer pressure often occurs during adolescence or teenage years when individuals are more susceptible to the opinions and actions of their peers. Sometimes, peer pressure can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, we must deal with peer pressure in a civilized and positive way. 

On this page, we will provide you with some samples of how to write an essay on peer pressure. Here are essay on peer pressure in 100, 200 and 450 words.

Table of Contents

  • 1 Essay on Peer Pressure in 450 Words
  • 2 Essay on Peer Pressure in 200 Words
  • 3 Essay on Peer Pressure in 100 Words

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

Essay on Peer Pressure in 450 Words

‘Be true to who you are and proud of who you’re becoming. I have never met a critic who was doing better than me.’ – Jeff Moore

Why do we seek recognition? Why do we want to fit in? Why are we not accepting ourselves in just the way we are? The answer to these questions is almost the same; peer pressure. Peer pressure is the influence of our peers in such a way, that we wish and try to do things in the same way as others did. 

Negatives and Positive Peer Pressure

Peer pressure can have positive and negative effects. Positive peer pressure can result in better academic performance, personal growth and development, etc. We can be a source of inspiration to our friends or vice versa, which can result in better academic growth, adopting healthier lifestyles, and engaging in community service. For example, you are part of a group collaborating on a community project that demonstrates the constructive influence of peer interaction. This can encourage a sense of purpose and shared responsibility.

Negative Peer Pressure is the opposite of positive peer pressure. In such cases, we are influenced by the negative bad habits of our peers, which often result in disastrous consequences. Consider the scenario where one of your friends starts smoking simply to conform to the smoking habits of his peers, highlighting the potentially harmful consequences of succumbing to negative influences.

How to Deal With Peer Pressure?

Peer pressure can be dealt with in several ways. The first thing to do is to understand our own values and belief systems. Nobody wants to be controlled by others, and when we know what is important to us, it becomes easier to resist pressure that goes against our beliefs.

A person with self-esteem believes in his or her decisions. It creates a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. When you believe in yourself, you are more likely to make decisions based on your principles rather than succumbing to external influences.

Choosing your friends wisely can be another great way to avoid peer pressure. Positive peer influence can be a powerful tool against negative peer pressure.

Building the habit of saying ‘No’ and confidently facing pressure in uncomfortable situations can be a great way to resist peer pressure. So, it is important to assertively express your thoughts and feelings. 

Peer pressure can have different effects on our well-being. It can contribute to personal growth and development, and it can also negatively affect our mental and physical health. We can deal with peer pressure with the necessary skills, open communication, and a supportive environment. We must act and do things in responsible ways.

Also Read: Essay on Green Revolution in 100, 200 and 500 Words

Essay on Peer Pressure in 200 Words

‘A friend recently started smoking just because every guy in his class smokes, and when they hang out, he feels the pressure to conform and be accepted within the group. However, he is not aware of the potential health risks and personal consequences associated with the habit. 

This is one of the many negative examples of peer pressure. However, peer pressure can often take positive turns, resulting in better academic performance, and participation in social activities, and physical activities. 

Dealing with peer pressure requires a delicate balance and determination. Teenagers must have alternative positive options to resist negative influences. Developing a strong sense of self, understanding personal values, and building confidence are crucial components in navigating the challenges posed by peer pressure.

Learning to say ‘No’ assertively can be a great way to tackle peer pressure. You must understand your boundaries and be confident in your decisions. This way, you can resist pressure that contradicts your values. Also, having a plan in advance for potential pressure situations and seeking support from trusted friends or mentors can contribute to making informed and responsible choices.

‘It is our choice how we want to deal with peer pressure. We can make good and bad decisions, but in the end, we have to accept the fact that we were influenced by our peers and we were trying to fit in.’

Essay on Peer Pressure in 100 Words

‘Peer pressure refers to the influence of your peers. Peer pressure either be of positive or negative types. Positive peer pressure can encourage healthy habits like academic challenges, physical activities, or engaging in positive social activities. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead us to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or skipping school, to fit in with our peers.’

‘There are many ways in which we can deal with peer pressure. Everyone has their personal beliefs and values. Therefore, they must believe in themselves and should not let other things distract them. When we are confident in ourselves, it becomes easier to stand up for what we believe in and make our own choices. Peer pressure can be dealt with by staying positive about yourself.’

Ans: ‘Peer pressure refers to the influence of your peers. Peer pressure either be of positive or negative types. Positive peer pressure can encourage healthy habits like academic challenges,, physical activities, or engaging in positive social activities. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead us to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or skipping school, to fit in with our peers.’

Ans: Peer pressure refers to the influence of our peers or people around us. 

Ans: Peer pressure can have both positive and negative effects on school children. It can boost academic performance, encourage participation in social activities, adopt healthier lifestyles, etc. However, peer pressure often results in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, unsafe activities, or other harmful behaviours.

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Positive Peer Pressure: A Powerful Ally to Change

  • Jon R. Katzenbach and Zia Khan

Webster tells us that a peer is “one of equal standing with another” or “one belonging to the same societal group (that is, based on age, grade or status).” On the job, most of us have peers that we enjoy, respect and cultivate. We also have peers that we abhor, ignore, and avoid. Most peer […]

Webster tells us that a peer is “one of equal standing with another” or “one belonging to the same societal group (that is, based on age, grade or status).” On the job, most of us have peers that we enjoy, respect and cultivate. We also have peers that we abhor, ignore, and avoid. Most peer interaction takes place “informally,” as there are no lines on an org chart that connect peers together

peer pressure is beneficial essay

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What Is Peer Pressure?

Types, Examples, and How to Deal With Peer Pressure

peer pressure is beneficial essay

David Young-Wolff/The Image Bank / Getty Images 

  • Parental Influence
  • Peer Pressure at All Ages
  • How to Cope

Peer pressure is the process by which members of the same social group influence other members to do things that they may be resistant to, or might not otherwise choose to do. Peers are people who are part of the same social group, so the term "peer pressure" refers to the influence that peers can have on each other.

Usually, the term peer pressure is used when people are talking about behaviors that are not considered socially acceptable or desirable, such as experimentation with alcohol or drugs.

Though peer pressure is not usually used to describe socially desirable behaviors, such as exercising or studying, peer pressure can have positive effects in some cases.

Types of Peer Pressure

In reality, peer pressure can be either a positive or negative influence that one peer, or group of peers, has on another person. The following six terms are often used to describe the types of peer pressure a person may experience.

Spoken vs. Unspoken Peer Pressure

As the name suggests, spoken peer pressure is when someone verbally influences another person to do something. For instance, a teenager might influence their friend to smoke a cigarette by saying, "Come on, one cigarette won't hurt."

Unspoken peer pressure, on the other hand, is when no one verbally tries to influence you. However, there is still a standard set by the group to behave in a certain way.

Even if no one tells the teenager to smoke a cigarette in the example above, the teen may still feel pressured by their peers to partake in the activity because it seems like everyone is doing it.

Direct vs. Indirect Peer Pressure

Direct peer pressure is when a person uses verbal or nonverbal cues to persuade someone to do something. The example mentioned above of a teen handing another teen a cigarette is also an instance of direct peer pressure because the teen on the receiving end must decide on the spot how they're going to respond.

With indirect peer pressure, no one is singling you out, but the environment you're in may influence you to do something. If you're at a party where everyone is drinking, for instance, you might feel pressured to drink even if no one asks you to.

Positive vs. Negative Peer Pressure

Finally, peer pressure can be described as either positive or negative. Positive peer pressure is when a person is influenced by others to engage in a beneficial or productive behavior.

Negative peer pressure is the influence a person faces to do something they wouldn't normally do or don't want to do as a way of fitting in with a social group. People often face negative peer pressure to drink alcohol, do drugs, or have sex.

Examples of Peer Pressure

Peer pressure causes people to do things they would not otherwise do with the hope of fitting in or being noticed.

Things people may be peer pressured into doing include:

  • Acting aggressively (common among men)
  • Bullying others
  • Doing drugs
  • Dressing a certain way
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Engaging in vandalism or other criminal activities
  • Physically fighting
  • Only socializing with a certain group

Peer pressure or the desire to impress their peers can override a teen or tween's fear of taking risks, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse for Kids. Risky behavior with drugs and/or alcohol may result in the following:

  • Alcohol or drug poisoning
  • Asphyxiation
  • Driving under the influence (of alcohol or other drugs)
  • Sexually transmitted diseases

Behavioral Addiction

People can also feel an internal pressure to participate in activities and behaviors they think their peers are doing, which can put them at risk for the following behavioral addictions:

  • Food addiction
  • Gambling addiction
  • Internet addiction
  • Sex addiction
  • Shopping addiction
  • Video game addiction

In the case of teens, parents are rarely concerned about the peer pressure their kids may face to engage in sports or exercise, as these are typically seen as healthy social behaviors. This is OK, as long as the exercise or sport does not become an unhealthy way of coping, excessive to the point of negatively affecting their health, or dangerous (as in dangerous sports).

What starts out as positive peer pressure may become negative pressure if it leads a person to over-identify with sports, for example, putting exercise and competition above all else.

If taken to an extreme, they may develop exercise addiction , causing them to neglect schoolwork and social activities, and ultimately, use exercise and competition in sports as their main outlet for coping with the stresses of life. This can also lead to numerous health consequences.

Examples of Positive Peer Influence

We tend to hear more about the potentially negative effects of peer pressure. But the reality is, peer pressure can be positive. For instance, two friends might put positive pressure on each other to go to the gym together and stay accountable for their fitness goals.

Teens who volunteer in their community can keep each other motivated to participate. This involvement can lead to exposure to role models and eventually lead to the teens becoming positive role models themselves.

You can also positively peer pressure others by the way you respond to situations. For instance, if your friend is body-shaming another person, you can say, "Actually, it can be really harmful to criticize people's bodies like that."

In turn, your friend might reconsider criticizing people based on their appearance. By simply adhering to your own values and sharing them with a friend, you can positively peer pressure them to think before making a negative comment.

Parental Influence vs. Peer Pressure

Although parents worry about the influence of peers, overall, parents also can have a strong influence on whether children succumb to negative peer pressure.

Rather than worrying about the effects of their children's friendships, parents would do well to focus on creating a positive, supportive home environment. That way, even if your child is peer pressured to do something they don't want to do, they'll feel comfortable coming to you to talk about it first.

Role modeling good emotional self-regulation may also help your child stick to their own values when it comes to peer pressure. Self-regulation involves the ability to control thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to manage current behavior and achieve long-term goals.

This will teach your child positive ways of solving problems and coping with uncomfortable feelings, rather than trying to escape by doing things to fit into a crowd. Peer pressure to take potentially harmful risks can be balanced by parents ensuring that they set appropriate boundaries, provide support, and help to avoid risks. A few examples:

  • Pick up your child from events where alcohol or drugs may have been consumed.
  • Provide balanced, truthful information on issues such as alcohol and drug use.
  • Stay involved in your child's life. Believe it or not, you are one of their biggest influences and they listen when you talk.
  • Urge the importance of thinking before doing. Teach teens to ask themselves questions like: Could this harm me or someone else? Will this put my health or safety at risk? Is it legal? What are the long-term consequences for my health, family, education, and future?

Peer Pressure Beyond Childhood

Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure because they are at a stage of development when they are separating more from their parents' influence, but have not yet established their own values or understanding about human relationships or the consequences of their behavior.

They are also typically striving for social acceptance and are more willing to engage in behaviors against their better judgment in order to be accepted.

However, adults are also vulnerable to peer pressure. Many adults are susceptible to drinking too much because their friends are doing it, or putting work before family because they're competing with other people in their office for a promotion.

The bottom line: Being aware of, and carefully choosing the influence of peers that will lead to healthy and happy experiences is a lifelong process.

How to Deal With Peer Pressure

Dealing with peer pressure can be difficult, but below are some ways to help address it.

Take Your Time

Instead of quickly agreeing to do something you'd rather not do, pause and take a few deep breaths . If someone is waiting for you to answer them, tell them you need to take a few days and think about it. It's easier to resist the pressure when you put some time and space between yourself and the situation.

Consider Your Reasons

When you're faced with a choice, ask yourself what your reasons are for doing something. If it's because all of your friends are doing it and you're afraid they won't talk to you if you don't join them, then you may want to reconsider.

You deserve to surround yourself with supportive people who respect your decisions—not people who pressure you into doing something that doesn't feel right.

Set Boundaries

Saying "no" can be hard, but it's necessary to set healthy boundaries in relationships. If someone persistently pressures you to do something, you can try telling them how it affects you.

For instance, you might say something like, "It upsets me when you offer me a cigarette when you know I don't smoke. I won't be able to keep hanging out with you if you don't respect my answer."

Offer an Alternative

It's possible that a friend who is peer pressuring you simply wants to spend more time with you or connect with you, but they don't know how else to ask.

If they pressure you to do shots with them at the bar when you aren't drinking, for example, you might suggest that you both hit the dance floor instead. Or maybe, you make a plan to go on a hike or to the movies the next time you hang out. That way, you're fulfilling both of your needs in a mutually beneficial way.

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Morris H, Larsen J, Catterall E, et al.  Peer pressure and alcohol consumption in adults living in the UK: A systematic qualitative review .  BMC Public Health.  2014;20:1014. doi:10.1186/s12889-020-09060-2

Clark DA, Donnellan MB, Durbin CE, et al. Sex, drugs, and early emerging risk: Examining the association between sexual debut and substance use across adolescence . PLoS ONE. 2020;15(2):e0228432. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0228432

Stanaland A, Gaither S. “Be a man”: The role of social pressure in eliciting men’s aggressive cognition . Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2021;47(11):1596-1611. doi:10.1177/0146167220984298

Sabramani V, Idris IB, Ismail H, Nadarajaw T, Zakaria E, Kamaluddin MR. Bullying and its associated individual, peer, family and school factors: Evidence from Malaysian National Secondary School students .  Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2021;18(13):7208. doi:10.3390/ijerph18137208

Kim J, Fletcher JM. The influence of classmates on adolescent criminal activities in the United States .  Deviant Behav . 2018;39(3):275-292. doi:10.1080/01639625.2016.1269563

National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens. Why Does Peer Pressure Influence Teens To Try Drugs? .

Pamela Rackow, Urte Scholz, Rainer Hornung.  Received social support and exercising: An intervention study to test the enabling hypothesis .  British Journal of Health Psychology , 2015;20(4):763. doi:10.1111/bjhp.12139

Vogel L. Fat shaming is making people sicker and heavier .  CMAJ . 2019;191(23):E649. doi:10.1503/cmaj.109-5758

Dhull P, Beniwal RD. Dealing with peer pressure . Online International Interdisciplinary Research Journal. 2017;7.

By Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD is a psychologist, professor, and Director of the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University, Canada. 

84 Peer Pressure Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best peer pressure topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 simple & easy peer pressure essay titles, 👍 good essay topics on peer pressure, ❓ questions about peer pressure.

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Positive Effects of Peer Pressure: Essay Example

Positive effects of peer pressure: essay abstract, positive effects of peer pressure: essay introduction, positive effects of peer pressure, the avoidance of negative peer pressure, positive effects of peer pressure: essay conclusion.

The paper dwells on the analysis of the positive effects that peer pressure can have on adolescents. At the same time, the negative implications of peer pressure are acknowledged. The influence of peer pressure on teens’ development in various dimensions is discussed. It is noted that such negative habits as smoking, substance abuse, and careless driving can be mitigated with the application of positive peer pressure. The paper also emphasizes the role of teachers and parents in the formation of adolescents’ social interactions. With the help of a carefully crafted approach, it is possible to turn peer pressure from a challenging issue into a beneficial phenomenon.

Peer pressure can have a significant impact on almost every aspect of a teenager’s life. However, while peer pressure is commonly viewed as a negative phenomenon, it can also have many positive aspects. Peer pressure has the potential to help teens grow as individuals and adopt good habits. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the positive features peer pressure can enhance, as well as analyze the negative ones that should be eliminated.

As the state of being affected by one’s peers, peer pressure is a focus of research involving both positive and negative implications. While scholars mostly emphasized the negative impact of peer pressure in the past, recent studies indicate the beneficial effects of such a social phenomenon. The most evident influence of peer pressure is that it helps individuals analyze their habits and reflect on their ways of life. Research indicates that with the help of peer pressure, it is possible to mitigate serious health-related and behavioral problems. For instance, Bilgiç and Günay (2018) report that peer education is a highly effective approach to generating positive behavioral changes regarding teen smoking. Scholars note that peer education helps to eliminate the use of tobacco by teenagers. Positive peer pressure has also been reported by Goode, Balzarini, and Smith (2014), who found that it could decrease undergraduate drinking. Finally, Alinier and Verjee (2015) report that it is possible to promote driving safety using positive peer pressure. All of these studies demonstrate that following someone’s positive example can help young people to change themselves for the better.

Additionally, peer pressure has a considerable positive impact on young people’s education. According to Baruah and Boruah (2016), teenagers’ brain shows better activity when their classmates observe them. Seeing one’s peers achieve their goals can make one more persistent and goal-oriented. As Baruah and Boruah (2016) mention, peer pressure can serve as “a powerful source of reinforcement” (p. 241). One of the ways of increasing teenagers’ interest in academic improvement is arranging pair and group tasks where they have to interact and collaborate to reach the best outcome.

Additionally, peer pressure can develop young individuals’ understanding of social relationships and teach them to evaluate others’ ideas, compromise, or refuse to accept some issues. Teenagers’ emotional and social support of one another is revealed through peer communication. Hence, peer pressure can also perform the function of enhancement of such communication.

Despite several positive effects of peer pressure, there are also negative ones, such as the increase in teenagers’ inclination to careless driving, participation in criminal activity, or engaging in negative health behaviors. However, with carefully selected strategies, it is possible to avoid such adverse outcomes of peer pressure. Thus, promoting enough education and communication regarding establishing healthy relationships is essential for teenagers. In this respect, it is necessary to increase the quality of parent-teen relationships, as well as enhance school connectedness (Zhu et al., 2015). A vulnerable group of adolescents is represented by teens with disabilities, who need additional training in handling negative peer pressure (Khemka et al., 2016). By arranging positive relations among teens, parents, and schools, it is easier to avoid adverse implications.

Peer pressure can be both stimulating and discouraging in striving for better academic performance. As Bursztyn, Egorov, and Jensen (2019) report, the establishment of identity among adolescents may trigger both positive and negative effects of peer pressure. The teacher must arrange an environment where students feel safe and unwilling to give up because of their peers’ mockery. Korir and Kipkemboi (2014) also emphasize the teacher’s role in creating a positive peer-pressure atmosphere. Finally, the role of the family in avoiding negative peer pressure should not be underestimated (Telzer et al., 2018). Parents should teach their children that their behaviors impact others, as well as that they should not be discouraged by others’ negative attitudes.

Peer pressure plays a crucial role in developing young people’s values, habits, principles, and behaviors. Even though peer pressure is primarily viewed as a negative phenomenon, it is impossible to overestimate its positive qualities. Teachers and parents, who perform the function of guidance counselors and behavior regulators, should help teens to make the best out of peer pressure effects on the development of positive features.

Alinier, G., & Verjee, M. (2015). Encouraging a driving safety culture through positive peer pressure with courtesy. Journal of Local and Global Health Science, 2015 (2), 18.

Baruah, P., & Boruah, B. (2016). Positive peer pressure and behavioral support. Indian Journal of Positive Psychology, 7 (2), 241–243.

Bilgiç, N., & Günay, T. (2018). Evaluation of the effectiveness of peer education on smoking behavior among high school students. Saudi Medical Journal, 39 (1), 74–80.

Bursztyn, L., Egorov, G., & Jensen, R. (2019). Cool to be smart or smart to be cool? Understanding peer pressure in education. The Review of Economic Studies, 86 (4), 1487–1526.

Goode, C., Balzarini, R. H., & Smith, H. J. (2014). Positive peer pressure: Priming member prototypicality can decrease undergraduate drinking. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 44 , 567–578.

Khemka, I., Hickson, L., & Mallory, S. B. (2016). Evaluation of a decision-making curriculum for teaching adolescents with disabilities to resist negative peer pressure. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 46 (7), 2372–2384.

Korir, D., & Kipkemboi, F. (2014). The impact of school environment and peer influences on students’ academic performance in Vihiga County, Kenia. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 5 (1), 240–251.

Telzer, E. H., van Hoorn, J., Rogers, C. R., & Do, K. T. (2018). Social influence on positive youth development: A developmental neuroscience perspective. Advances in Child Development and Behavior, 54 , 215–258.

Zhu, J., Zhang, W., Yu, C., & Bao, Z. (2015). Early adolescent Internet game addiction in context: How parents, school, and peers impact youth. Computers in Human Behavior, 50 , 159–168.

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Peer pressure - List of Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Peer pressure involves influence exerted by a peer group in encouraging a person to change their attitudes, values, or behaviors to conform to group norms. An essay on peer pressure could explore its effects on individuals, especially among teenagers, both positively and negatively. It may also delve into the psychological mechanisms behind peer pressure, strategies for resisting negative peer pressure, or the role of peer pressure in societal conformity and individual decision-making. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about Peer Pressure you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

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Essay about peer pressure This is when your peers try to influence the way you think or act. Therefore, the education system took care of how to resist this phenomenon? Students that attend C2E will be required to take a core class on “Teenage Survivor Skills”. This core class will be different for every grade, that way each grade learns age-appropriate material. It is the second period on Tuesdays/Thursdays. Funding is provided for a professional therapist through Bond and Mill Levy 5A and 5B that will rotate between classes teaching and will provide counseling for whoever needs it. This includes mental health awareness, drug, and peer pressure scenarios, and preparing for real-life dangerous situations. That way, kids will be informed earlier and more prepared for what is to come. This will help prevent mental health situations or hard times coming later in life. Older kids can come in to inform the younger ones about real-life experiences and give advice on situations. The classes are year-long so that the students can get the most information as possible. The classes are treated as a core class and graded accordingly while offering more hands-on activities. “Education about substance abuse is an important part of helping individuals understand the many aspects of it…” (“Substance Abuse Education Resources' 2018). People learn better through life experiences and making their own mistakes. Teens tend to want to experiment with drugs and alcohol and the class will explain the danger and effect of it. Most experiments are because of peer pressure, which is also vividly described in The Catcher in the Rye essay . Teens think that it will provide an escape, self-medication, boredom, rebellion, lack of confidence or misinformation. The class will help provide them with better and healthier ways to find confidence, help, etc. Many opponents to the idea will think that it is a waste of time and money to provide time and funding for this opportunity. “People should take tests to see what type of mental health diagnosis they have…also, if you aren’t seeing a good therapist then it is a waste of time and money. Not all kids get better from therapy and professionals so are we wasting our time.” While this fact is true it may be misinterpreted because, “1 in 5 children in youth have a diagnosable mental health condition, and 80% of them do not receive the help they need, only 40% of these kids will graduate from high school, and over 50% (14 and older) will drop out of high school.” Throughout the common misconceptions about high school dropouts, many do not get the help they need. Having courses to inform students stops many situations before they can even begin. Some studies have shown therapy is more harmful and can make you (more) depressed. Professor Glenys Parry (chief investigator of AdEPT) said “Most people are helped by therapy, but…anything that has real effectiveness, that has the transformative power to change your life, has also got the ability to make things worse if it is misapplied, the wrong treatment or if it’s not done correctly”. Although therapy can make you more depressed, it is actually a small percentage and very unlikely. Parry also said that the people who end up more depressed is because their therapist is “not practicing properly” , and you should get a new therapist. A good therapist can help you overcome and understand your feelings ('Hotline Information'). They will help find the problem and work on solving it. Therapy can also help you overcome fears, improve relationships, cope, and get rid of bad habits (drinking, drugs, etc.). Teenage Survival Skills will help prevent and prepare middle schoolers for upcoming years and peer pressure. The classes encourage and lead them carefully through tough situations they might face.  

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Home Essay Examples Sociology Peer Pressure

Peer Pressure In Young Adults

  • Category Sociology
  • Subcategory Interpersonal Relationship
  • Topic Peer Pressure

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Introduction

Peers are basically the people of your age or close to it who have experiences and interests similar to yours. Peers form an integral part of our life. As we become more independent, our peers naturally play a greater role in your life.

Peer pressure is the influence on people by peers, or the effect on an individual who gets encouraged to follow their peers by changing their attitudes, values or behaviours to conform to those of the influencing group or individual. It’s natural for people to identify with and compare themselves to their peers as they consider how they wish to be or think they should be, or what they want to achieve. People are influenced by peers because they want to fit in, be like peers they admire, do what others are doing, or have what others have.

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Peer pressure may be in a direct way or an indirect way. Friends asking us directly to do something is direct peer pressure. This is a powerful form of peer pressure and is difficult to resist. Indirect peer pressure is when someone sees and hears what their friends are doing and gets influenced by it.

People from all age groups face peer pressure in some form or the other. Usually, school going children demand things from their parents, which their friends own. They want to participate in activities which their friends do. This is peer pressure for them.

As college and other activities take adolescents away from home, they may spend more time with their peers than they do with their parents and siblings. They probably develop close friendships with some of their peers, and they may feel so connected to them that they are like an extended family. Some common peer pressure-based situations for teenagers are academic pressure due to comparison with better performing students, wasting precious time on social media, consumption of alcohol, substance abuse.

Even adults aren’t immune to peer pressure. Adults are just as subject to peer pressure as children and youth. Some forms in which adults face peer are buying expensive and unwanted things like to match status with peers, pressure to work at a highly paying and reputed job, pressure to get married and to have children.

When talking about peer pressure everyone thinks that it would have a negative influence. We usually tend to ignore the positive side of peer pressure. If we take two friends out and we know that one who is more influential is going to set the tone for the influence. So, if the one who is more influential doesn’t like to drink, the other friend might not drink. But if the influential friend likes to drink, we see the negative face of peer pressure.

Teenage is the time when a person is most susceptible to peer pressure because peers become an important influence on behaviour during this period.

So, we interviewed some teenagers to know how peer pressure has affected them during this age. We also analysed some macro-level peer pressure issues for teenagers in India.

Interview-1

Q.1) have you faced peer pressure in any form has peer pressure stopped you from being you.

Yes, I have faced peer pressure. Sometimes it made me do things I didn’t want to do.

Q.2) Could you list down some instances when you faced peer pressure?

  • I consumed alcohol during a treat given by my seniors.
  • I started playing computer games because all my friends used to play them.
  • I used to hang out with my friends even if I had some important work left as they forced me.
  • I had to participate in various extra-curricular activities due to peer pressure by seniors.

Q.3) Could you elaborate one event where peer pressure had negative effects on you?

I had consumed alcohol during a treat given by seniors. Even though I had a little urge to have it from my side, but due to constant nagging from seniors and my friends I had to drink so that I won’t feel left out. Now, I am an occasional drinker and I have hidden this fact from my parents. I now find it very hard to resist alcohol.

Q.4) How did you cope up with the pressure? What steps did you take to resist that pressure?

I still haven’t found a way to avoid such peer pressure-based incidents. I have to control myself a few times but that was of no use.

Q.5) Whom do you talk to when you are affected due to peer pressure?

I usually talk to my close friends as they cheer me up. I avoid talking to my parents about such things.

Q.6) Could you elaborate one event where peer pressure had positive effects on you?

Initially I didn’t have seriousness during my JEE preparation days at FIITJEE, but my friends were studying very hard. I got inspired by them and started preparing well for JEE and managed to clear with a good rank.

Q.7) What were your initial thoughts when you faced this pressure? Did you try to resist that pressure?

Initially I didn’t study regularly and used to spend time watching TV series and playing sports. But when I actually started feeling the pressure, I didn’t try to resist it as I knew that it is positive peer pressure.

Q.8) How did you feel when that pressure brought good results for you?

I was very elated and grateful to my friends because of them I am here in IIT Bombay.

Q.9) Have you created peer pressure on people you know?

Yes, I have done it. Even when some of my friends have quizzes and other important jobs and I want to do something else I pressurize them a bit to hang out with me.

Q.10) How do you plan to face such peer pressure-based incidents in future?

I would choose my upcoming friend circle wisely and would make plans with people who always think of my good. If someone forces too much and if I could not resist that pressure, I will make sure that I don’t hang out with that person too much.

Interview-2

Yes, I have faced peer pressure. I have done things which I didn’t want to do just because of peer pressure.

  • I started to drink alcoholic drinks after I joined college just because my friends were doing it.
  • My friends eat at lavish restaurants and spend a lot of money there regularly. Even I started doing the same even when I didn’t want to do it.
  • I tried weed and cigarettes under peer pressure.
  • I started going to the gym as many of my friends had joined.

I tried weed first time when I went on a trip with my friends when all my friends were doing the same. I did it 4-5 times after that partly because of peer pressure and also due to addiction. My energy used to drain out when I did that. I tried cigarettes just once when a school friend offered me.

Initially I couldn’t refuse my friends for anything. I thought that saying no would cause problems in our friendship. However, later on I observed that when I myself made any plans, many times my friends would refuse it saying that they have other priorities. So, one day I decided that from now on I won’t get influenced much by anyone and I will do only what I want to do.

Q.5) Who do you talk to when you are affected due to peer pressure?

I talk to my girlfriend and my close friends who I think will give me unbiased advice to deal with peer pressure.

I attended and participated in various workshops and sessions conducted in the institute which helped me explore various fields and enhanced my knowledge base. This happened mainly because some of my friends were also attending them.

I was very lazy in the beginning and thought that I would rather spend that time enjoying, like watching TV series.

I had a feeling of satisfaction as I think I got really benefited by attending those sessions and now I know exactly which sessions will be useful for me before attending the session itself.

Yes, I have done it. I have forced many people to hang out with me in spite of knowing that they have some important things to do. I have also encouraged my friends to bunk classes with me.

Having learnt from the past, now I have learnt the art of saying no. I will do only what I want to do and will set priorities accordingly. I plan to keep my thoughts rigid and maintain discipline so that I could avert such incidents in future.

Macro-Level Case Studies On Peer Pressure

1) entrance exams.

In the billion-dollar coaching industry, many uninterested children are still being enrolled by their parents to prepare for the entrance exams years before the actual exam just because their friend’s child started preparing for that exam.

Gone are the days when going to coaching class was an added advantage, now not going to a coaching class is considered a disadvantage as almost every serious entrance exam aspirant is affiliated to at least one coaching class.

Parents have to pay hefty fees of those coaching classes for many years so as to ensure that their child isn’t at any disadvantage during the exam. Some parents are not in a financial situation where they pay the fees easily and they have to sacrifice something to pay the fees which in turn creates stress for the student.

Students are under a lot of stress to outperform their peers in the class.

Not getting satisfactory results in the entrance exams and seeing their peer’s good performance may lead to depression for a student, which in its extreme form may lead to suicide. Suicides are not very rare in Kota, the coaching capital of the country. These are some negative aspects of peer pressure in this case.

However, there are also positive effects of peer pressure here. For the students who are genuinely interested in the subject, the competition enhances their performance and they end up learning more about the subject. They also learn crucial life skills like stress management, time management.

2) Substance Abuse

One of the major cases that comes to mind while thinking about peer pressure is that of substance abuse. People start taking alcohol, cigarettes and drugs mainly when their peers ask them to do so. Let us take an example which is quite realistic: If a group of teenagers are discussing their plans for the weekend with the majority of them saying they are going to a party and are going to be drinking and when one person says he/she is going to stay at home to study instead, the others will roll their eyes or whisper among themselves. The student who was planning to study may then feel under pressure to go to the party and drink just to prove how cool he or she really is. Or it could be that everyone laughs when one teenager refuses to drink at a party. This individual may then feel embarrassed and will take the drink even if he or she really doesn’t want it. The fear of missing out is the reason why these people fall prey to peer pressure and fall into a deep well from which coming out becomes a daunting task.

3) Social media

Social media has a severe impact on teens. Social media has given peer pressure the power to ruin the lives of teens who feel pressurized to do things mainly because all their friends are doing them. Nowadays, teens spend hours on different social media accounts, which may boost their social standing, but at the same time compel them to do things they shouldn’t or even aren’t too keen to do.

According to several studies conducted lately, viewing posts, images and statuses of friends indulging in inappropriate activities encourage teens to do the same. For instance, in one study, 75% of the teens accepted the fact that the pressure to blend in after seeing posts of their friends openly drinking alcohol and taking drugs forced them to repeat this behaviour. Going through the posts and stories of friends and seeing them going to late night parties, drinking alcohol, trying drugs, being in a relationship, make teens feel that everyone except them are enjoying their life.

The fear of missing out is so strong that they unintentionally start getting attracted towards these activities. This ‘virtual peer pressure’ has proved to be very dangerous. The social media platforms which were made with a motive to connect friends has this negative face as well.

Based on the interviews and the case studies done it can be understood that peer pressure plays a huge role in a teenagers’ life. Many choices that teenagers make in their day to day life are based on what their peers do.

We observed that peer pressure has both positive and negative impact on teenagers.

The most common and serious effects of peer pressure on teenagers are:

  • Consumption of alcohol at parties when friends are doing it.
  • Smoking, using drugs and other addictive substances due to peer pressure.
  • Doing undesirable activities like the ones mentioned above after watching posts and stories by their friends on social media.
  • Constant comparison of academics with peers to build a good career leading to depression and suicides.
  • Picking up a particular career stream just because everyone is doing it without having any real interest for the same. This is one of the reasons why we have so many applicants for JEE and such a huge number of engineers in the country.

Situations, where peer pressure has positive impact on teenagers, are:

  • Comparison of academics with peers brings out better performance for many students.
  • Participation in sports, joining a gym, having healthier diets after watching their friends who have become fit and look good. We noticed that the negative effects of peer pressure are more prevalent than the positive effects of peer pressure in teenagers. People tend to get attracted towards doing the wrong thing more easily than doing something which benefits them.

C Wright Mills asserts that sociological imagination is about making connections between personal challenges and larger social issues. Substance abuse, consumption of alcohol, misuse of social media, suicides due to academic pressure in teenagers has become far more common to be termed as personal trouble. Peer pressure has played a huge role to promote these things as seen in the interviews and case studies. Efforts must be taken at the country level to reduce these awful activities that are destroying so many teenagers’ lives. For instance, the government conduct awareness sessions on these topics in all the schools and colleges every 6 months and can ensure that schools and colleges have a team of professional counsellors to help students deal with such issues. Stricter laws can be imposed by government to restrict teenagers from getting alcohol, cigarettes, drugs. Unfortunately, no such measures are taken and the issue of peer pressure doesn’t get much attention by the authorities which implies that the teenagers are left to themselves to deal with it.

As seen from interviews and case studies, one’s lack of self-confidence has led to peer pressure affecting the teenagers. One should be confident enough so that he/she can refuse doing something which will have a negative impact on him/her as suggested by their peers. One should also not ignore the good suggestions given by friends for their betterment, like we saw in the interviews where peer pressure had a positive effect.

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The Effects of Peer Pressure on Students, Essay Example

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Words: 761

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There are no simple answers to the effects of peer pressure on students.  It would be unfair to say that most peer pressure results in unwise decisions, as it is often generalized within current culture.  Peer pressure transforms a student in a unique manner.  The current analysis will examine the most dangerous effects of peer pressure on students, as well as the general negative and positive effects.

Dangerous Effects of Peer Pressure

There are a number of dangerous effects that peer pressure can have on students.  These effects are often felt within media and schools, which is where the perceived dangers of peer pressures lie, according to most.  However, they certainly cannot be disregarded due to the truth of these concerns.

Alcohol is felt within the consequences of peer pressure in students.  With regards to underage drinking, this is a significant problem within students, especially in high school and college.  The habits and commonplace of underage drinking is established in high school, which is then perpetuated to one’s college years.

Partying in general is another example of the more dangerous effects of peer pressure.  Younger students at parties are around others who are unsupervised, which makes them more susceptible to peer pressure.  Thus, items like drinking and other inappropriate behavior are accepted in one’s social circle.  Peer pressure is commonly seen at parties, which is where a number of dangerous activities occur.

Sex is also another example of the negative effects of peer pressure.  Students are having sex at a younger age, resulting in items like teenage pregnancies.  As underage and unprotected sex becomes accepted in social circles, peer pressure often has an effect on students in this way as well.

General Negative Effects

There are a number of generally negative effects that peer pressure can have on a student’s development.  Beyond the more dangerous effects, at least in regards to the more clearly defined negative effects, a number of underlying effects of peer pressure can be seen with students.  The dynamics that are presented in peer pressure in students can unfortunately be quite negative.

Peer pressure can often drown out the opinion of one.  When students are engaged in certain social circles, it is not uncommon to see the unfair treatment of individuals.  Certain individuals, whether they are not liked, ignored, or just not seen, are often unable to relate to others.

Peer pressure also removes the choices that one should be able to make.  A number of events and activities that students are involved in are done on a social level.  Such activities remove the healthy choices that enable students to seek adventure and healthy activities, instead of what is expected or on schedule.

The underlying negative dynamic of peer pressure is the ultimate undermining of individuality.  Peer pressure has the unfortunate effect of removing one’s own will and desires, in order to become accepted or liked within a social circle.  As seen in these negative examples and in the more dangerous illustrations, the individual is often casted our in peer pressure.  As a result, one is left to follow others in that of peer pressure.

General Positive Effects

Peer pressure can of course have positive effects on students.  While this is often not portrayed, it rings true for many students.  It can often push and help one to realize or perform something, to help someone thrive with the help of others.

Peer pressure can help individuals in more difficult periods.  Friends are there to help someone in tough times, and peer pressure can help someone who needs wise council.  Many students, who are involved with the right people, are able to enjoy the positive relationships when they need them the most.

Some activities driven by peer pressure can help students get involved.  Activities and functions can be great for the social development of a student.  Peer pressure, even when applied outside of one’s comfort zone, can ultimately be beneficial.

Peer pressure can also help individuals make the right choices.  When students face difficult choices in their life, they often rely on their friends.  In this manner peer pressure can help persuade one to the right decision, allowing their friend to see the positive way to react to an important choice.

It is unfortunate that peer pressure is often regarded in one dimension.  While there are certainly negative effects of peer pressure, such as those that undermine one’s individuality and encourage dangerous practices, peer pressure can help an individual develop through the difficult times as a student and a person.  Centered on surrounding oneself with positive influences, peer pressure can rise above the negative effects to institute healthy social and personal steps of one’s development.

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Peer pressure is good for self-development.

In my essay, I hope to prove that positive peer pressure is good for self-development and that even negative peer pressure may help some people develop. I contend that positive peer pressure may force a person to excel, and that fighting negative peer pressure may help build character.

Peer pressure is the social influence that people in your particular group have over you. People pleasers are typically more prone to peer pressure, and people with more to lose from losing their group are prone to peer pressure. A common example of people having more to lose is with gangs in the US. Members of the gang will often have little else in their lives to enable them to walk away from their gang. In that case, if they are pressured into doing something for the gang, then the member is more susceptible because he or she cannot risk losing membership in the gang. (Montgomery, 1996).

I contend that positive peer pressure may force a person to excel. Sports and competitive events seem to prove this. People who enter competitive events are typically forced to work hard because of their own will and because they have people relying on them to perform well. If a competitor does well, then that competitor is adored by his or her peer group. If a competitor does well, then he or she may experience things such as scorn, threats and even physical violence. Competitors in sporting and competitive events are therefore encouraged to do well and excel because of peer pressure. (Claesen, 1986).

Fighting negative peer pressure may help build character. Peer pressure that is directed towards negative actions or events is likely to cause a person to do negative things or take part in negative events. If a person is able to fight such peer pressure and fight against all the risks that come with fighting peer pressure, then it may help build character. It is quite a conservative thought in many cases because the person under pressure is forced to use his or her head rather than his or her feelings. Such a conservative attitude, such as the ability to fight peer pressure when risk is involved, is a conservative attitude that helps a person build character. It means that person is able to make his or her own decisions without allowing other people to bully him or her. (Kandel, 1992).

There are times when a person develops on his or her own, and there are times when self-development is forced. In the case of peer pressure, it appears that force may be necessary. A person may develop on his or her own, but peer pressure may force the issue. The only downside is that peer pressure may force people through stages of development that they are not ready for. For example, sports athletes may be pushed too hard until they burn out, and people may be encouraged to take part in negative events and may be too immature to fight negative peer pressure. There are downsides to peer pressure, but those downsides do not eradicate the potential upsides if they are correctly harnessed. (Hansen, 1991).

Peer pressure has its pros and its cons, but on the whole, it may help a person develop both emotionally and socially. Positive peer pressure may have negative effects, but the outcome is often a positive one. On the other hand, if a person is able to experience negative peer pressure and fight it, then it may have a dramatic effect on his or her personal development. It may also help that person become more mature because a mature person is able to put something on the line and risk it in order to grow.

Bibliography

Claesen, Donna Rae, B. Bradford Brown, and Sue Ann Eicher. “Perceptions of peer pressure, peer conformity dispositions, and self-reported behavior among adolescents.” Developmental psychology 22.4 (1986): 521-530.

Hansen, William B., and John W. Graham. “Preventing alcohol, marijuana, and cigarette use among adolescents: Peer pressure resistance training versus establishing conservative norms.” Preventive medicine 20.3 (1991): 414-430.

Kandel, Eugene, and Edward P. Lazear. “Peer pressure and partnerships.” Journal of political Economy 100.4 (1992): 801-817.

Montgomery, Richard. “Disciplining or protecting the poor? Avoiding the social costs of peer pressure in micro-credit schemes.” Journal of international development 8.2 (1996): 289-305.

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Essay on Peer Pressure for Students in English [500+ Words]

January 2, 2021 by Sandeep

Essay on Peer Pressure: Building up of negative influences within young adolescent minds to excel among peers is called peer pressure. It can create disturbed mind patterns and lead a person to suicidal thoughts, stress and depression. The outcome of such behaviour can negatively alter a person’s behaviour. It may misguide him to consume alcohol and drugs and risk his own life. It may also lead to anti-social behaviours amongst teenagers pushing them into criminal activities.

Essay on Peer Pressure 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Peer Pressure Essay in English, suitable for class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.

It’s Better To Walk Alone Than With A Crowd Going In The Wrong Direction. – Diane Grant

Human beings are social animals. We all make a lot of relations in our life. In choosing some relationships, we do not have a choice, but for some others, we do. Making friends and hanging out with them at school and other places is fun but we need to choose our friends wisely. Suppose your friend calls you to the basement stairs of the school and asks you to share a cigarette with him. You deny it. But then he says that if you do not smoke, he will spread your secrets in the whole class. This is known as peer pressure.

It is getting someone to do something that they might not like to do or might not be comfortable doing. Peer pressure is not always bad. Sometimes, it even makes you want to put in more effort and reach your potential. Positive peer pressure is beneficial and healthy, but it is the negative side of it, that can prove to be harmful. School children and teenagers are more prone to peer pressure. This is the age where they indulge themselves in alcohol, smoking, drugs, ragging, beating up others, stealing and what not!

Hence, it becomes necessary first to identify when we are trying to be peer pressured. We should know how to recognise when someone is trying to make us a victim of this. Whenever you feel like this, remember to ask yourself some questions. Is this right what they are asking me to do? Does it feel wrong to me? Am I uncomfortable while doing this? Would I still do this if my parents or some adult were around? There are many ways in which your friends can pressurise you. They may blackmail, threaten or even bribe you. But you should know what is right for you and that saying “NO” has so much power.

Negative Effects of Peer Pressure

Peer pressure can harm us. It results in grades at school getting lowered, a disrespect towards our parents, teachers and other adults, resorting to violent or aggressive acts and bunking or skipping classes. It may even lead to us getting addicted to various harmful substances and becoming insensitive towards others and their feelings. Imagine that you are playing with your friends in the park and your parents have told you to be back home by 7:00 p.m. But as soon as you say to your friends that you are leaving, one of them forces you to come to his house to play video games.

He says that if you do not agree to go, then you and he are no longer friends. What do you do in such a situation? Do you give in and go to his house and disobey your parents? Or do you make him understand that you must be home today and maybe tomorrow you can come to his house after taking permission from your mom and dad? There are numerous ways to resist peer pressure, and we should not hesitate to take them. We can simply walk away and even warn others about the consequences of what they are doing. We can say no firmly and also call for an adult in situations we feel that require their help.

Positive Effects of Peer Pressure

On the opposite side, we have good or positive peer pressure which is beneficial for us. If your friends do social work or volunteering, it is apparent that you too would want to indulge in such an activity. Say suppose at the time of after school activities, your friends already in a school sports team encourage you to join in. This is positive peer pressure because on the field; you get to collaborate and work together as a team. Thus, spending your time productively. If you have friends who encourage you to study more when your marks dip, then you indeed have found good friends who look out for you.

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  • Peer Pressure Essay

Peer Pressure and Young People Essay

This peer pressure and young people essay tackles the issue of whether the influence of one's peers is negative or positive.

Take a look at the essay question.

Young people are often influenced in their behaviours by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important while others feel it has distinct disadvantages.

Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages?

Understanding the question

Though this is clearly a question asking about the advantages and disadvantages of one's peers, it's important to note that you can't just list the pros and cons without giving your opinion.

The question specifically says:

This is saying: "Are the disadvantages greater than the advantages?" So you must answer that question. You can do so within the body paragraphs or just at the end in the conclusion.

You could of course say they are equal and balance each other out, as long as you make it clear that that is your opinion.

Either way, you must also discuss disadvantages  and advantages. Whatever your opinion is, the question is clearly implying there are both - just that there may be more of one than the other. If you don't discuss both, the examiner may take the view that you have not fully answered the question which could limit you to a band 5 for task response.

Peer Pressure Essay

Peer Pressure and Young People Essay Sample

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer

Peer pressure is a pervasive phenomenon that significantly influences the behaviours of young individuals. While some argue that it plays a crucial role in positively shaping the lives of the youth, others contend that the disadvantages of peer pressure are very detrimental. 

Peer pressure, when harnessed positively, can have several advantages. Firstly, it can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among individuals within the same age group. Young people often seek acceptance and affirmation from their peers, and this can contribute to their emotional well-being and self-esteem. A further benefit is that positive peer pressure can encourage healthy behaviours, such as exercising or avoiding risky activities. For instance, a teenager might be motivated to quit smoking if their friends promote a smoke-free lifestyle.

However, peer pressure can also have distinct disadvantages. The most pressing concern is the potential for negative influences on impressionable minds. Young people may succumb to the pressure of engaging in harmful behaviours, such as substance abuse, criminal activities, or reckless behaviours like driving without a seatbelt, due to peer pressure, which can lead to long-lasting negative consequences and jeopardise their future.

Moreover, excessive pressure from peers can stifle individuality and creativity as young people may conform to the norms of their peer group instead of pursuing their own aspirations and dreams. This conformity may limit their personal growth and hinder their ability to think independently.

In conclusion, I would argue that peer pressure has more disadvantages as although it can foster a sense of belonging and promote healthy behaviours, it also carries the risk of leading young people astray and stifling their individuality. It is imperative for parents, educators, and society at large to guide young people in making informed choices and navigating the complexities of peer influence.

This peer pressure and young people essay would score highly for IELTS.

Regarding task response , it fully answers the question, discussing both the pros and cons of peer pressure and setting out a clear opinion on the topic - in this case that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Ideas are clearly stated and extended.

Coherence and cohesion is very good, with ideas sequenced logically and clearly and paragraphing used sufficiently and appropriately.

There is a wide range of lexis (vocabulary) used fluently and flexibly. For instance, in the first two paragraphs:

  • pervasive phenomenon
  • positively shaping
  • harnessed positively
  • foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie
  • seek acceptance and affirmation
  • emotional well-being and self-esteem

As for grammatical range and accuracy , there is a wide range of structures, with a high level of accuracy. An example of several complex structures used can be seen for instance here:

  • Young people may succumb to the pressure of engaging in harmful behaviours, such as substance abuse, criminal activities, or reckless behaviours like driving without a seatbelt, due to peer pressure, which can lead to long-lasting negative consequences and jeopardise their future.

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15 Pros and Cons of Peer Pressure

It is important to make an effort at our friendships. Trying to fit in with an entire group during this work can sometimes have things turn sour. When you want to feel like you are part of something, then the other members of that group can put pressure on you to act in a specific way. When you decide to do something that you normally wouldn’t do or not being yourself in some way to feel accepted, then you are experiencing peer pressure.

When you start to deal with peer pressure, it can change the way you look and dress. You might decide to begin to participate in activities that fall outside of your normal interests. It can influence who you choose to date, if you drink alcohol or take drugs, and even alter who your friends are.

There are three ways that peer pressure occurs.

  • Direct peer pressure occurs when someone tells you what you should be doing.
  • Indirect pressure happens when your group does a specific activity together that you would not usually do if you were outside of that group.
  • Self-directed peer pressure is when you place stress on yourself to fit in with a specific group of people because of the comments or standards directed toward you.

Peer pressure is often see as being a negative interaction, but it can also be a trait that is sometimes used for good. These are the pros and cons to consider.

List of the Pros of Peer Pressure

1. It can be a way to help you learn some positive habits. When you begin to follow a group of friends, then you have a chance to see all of their traits. If you only focus on the negative choices they make, that will be the pressure that you feel to conform. There are positive habits in each group that you can focus on as well. Observing good choices and wanting to include them as part of your daily routine is beneficial. Let’s say that your friends like to take a walk each morning to get some exercise, so they invite you to come along. They don’t stop extending the invitation until you join them. Their encouragement can be inspirational, and it can help you to get the physical activity that you need.

2. Peer pressure can help you to experience different cultures. Every family teaches their children different values based on the desires of the parents, guardians, grandparents, and others in authority. There are times when your folks might want to keep you away from certain elements of society because it could be harmful. In the past, some families avoided soda, fast food, or even public school to shelter kids from potentially harmful elements. Today’s parents are taking the same actions on social media, online programming, and even computer use.

When you have a group of friends who come from a diverse set of family experiences, then you have an opportunity to see how the world operates with greater clarity. You can benefit from their observations of life, just as your friends can learn from yours. When you can see a wide range of behaviors and choices, then it becomes easier to make the right decision.

3. It can help you to abandon negative habits. The best peer groups will work with you to start reducing the influence of your bad habits. If you are the person who is always late to events, then you would start to change this behavior when seeing your friends arriving on time – all of the time. Gaining acceptance into this group of friends can be enough to inspire the change you want to see in life. This benefit works for other bad habits too, ranging from the foods you eat to even the shows you decide to watch on television.

4. Peer pressure can encourage excellence. When students work with intelligent classmates, then they tend to perform better academically. This result occurs because kits tend to imitate each other when they are unsure of how to behave in a social environment. Children also reward one another for acting in specific ways, such as smiles, laughter, or a high-five. These expectations that we have for each other continue into adulthood. When there are clear expectations in place and you surround yourself with people who want to do the right thing, then that will eventually become the person you become.

5. It can help you to become a more emotionally flexible person. If you are eager to start fitting in with a specific group, then it is not unusual for your preferences and behavior to instantly change as needed to accommodate what everyone wants. Although liking hot dogs today and hating them tomorrow can seem like a flip-flop, it is actually evidence of your desire to compromise and accommodate others. All reciprocal relationships must have this trait if they are going to work.

6. Peer pressure can help you to develop empathy. When you spend time worrying about what everyone else things about you, then a deeper awareness of your personal feelings begins to develop at the same time. This process will eventually help your social skills because interacting with other people is the easiest way to feel what it is like to be someone else. That is why we try to experience a situation from another person’s perspective if we get upset with them. There are times when empathy can feel like a disadvantage if it feels like you’re always helping the other person, but it is also a process that will help you to mature. It can even help you to develop a high emotional IQ.

7. It can help you to keep from being overweight. Your friends will influence how much you decide to eat. When there are friends with whom you can interact every day at school or work, then you are less likely to find comfort in negative habits like comfort snacking. Spending time with your friends makes you less likely to eat something because you’re either playing, engaged in an activity, or doing something active. Friendships work to minimize boredom and reduce the severity of stress that you feel, which is why having a positive group is so advantageous to the average person.

List of the Cons of Peer Pressure

1. It can cause you to lose your identity. When you are making choices to gain acceptance into a group of friends, then you are changing who you are at a core level to please someone else. Instead of focusing on your identity, you shift it to become something that others want to see. Although it can feel good to experience acceptance, this emotion can be short-lived because the friends who demand compliance through peer pressure are usually the first to walk away from you in life. If other people are asking you to change, then they aren’t really your friends. True friendships embrace your strengths and weaknesses as they are.

2. Peer pressure can increase the risk of a mental health issue. Most people fear social rejection on some level. Those who do not are typically independent souls who grew up in an isolated family environment and have their own unique struggles with peer pressure. It is this feeling that causes some individuals to blindly follow what other people suggest that they do without giving the situation a second thought. People who give you the cold shoulder after you try to express an opinion or refuse an action that goes against your belief system are not really your friends.

If you decide to succumb to this peer pressure because you decide that the feelings of fear outweigh the issues of changing who you are, then you might end up making some poor choices that could influence the path that your life takes. Both feelings will also increase your risks of experiencing depression.

3. It can change your focus on progress. It is not just students who face peer pressure when they go to school. Adults encounter the same issues at work when they are working toward a specific goal. A person’s peers are often the primary culprits behind a low academic or professional performance issue. When you run with a group of people who encourage you to behave in ways that are contrary to your goals, then you might find yourself smoking, drinking alcohol, or even taking drugs to fit in instead of studying for an exam.

You might take extra breaks at work to “slack off” because that’s what your co-workers do. There are times when it can be challenging to distinguish between what is right and wrong, so it is essential to avoid negative peer groups and the pressure they bring whenever possible.

4. Peer pressure teaches power and control in unhealthy ways. People tend to gravitate toward the individuals who have the most social power and control. By associating with the individuals who are at the top, it feels like you receive a boost in your personal standing. We all want to win because that is what our brain values. Being the best makes you feel important partially because the components of the brain associated with rewards activates when there are feelings of social acceptance. Friendships are magical experiences, even if there are challenging moments at times. That is why it is essential that you find friends who pressure you toward positive choices instead of forcing you to prove your loyalty through negative behaviors.

5. It can create harmful circumstances that impact your life in adverse ways. When you take a look at the overall impact of peer pressure in your life, there are times when you might feel pressure to do something good even though it is a poor choice for you at the time. Let’s say that you attend a church that is going through a building program. One of the elders stands behinds the pulpit to declare that his family is going to donate one-third of their salary for the next 2 years to help with the project’s progress. Now your best friend goes up front, and she says the same thing. If you are encouraged to donate money but are barely scraping by, helping the community by hurting your finances is still a negative form of peer pressure.

6. Peer pressure can change your goals in life. There are times when you might want to identify with a group because it reinforces your social identity in positive ways. Although there is nothing inherently wrong with this choice, it can become a disadvantage if your association begins to change the goals you have in life. High school seniors might decide to put off going to college because their friends are staying home to work. Some adults decide to work in a job they hate because of the peer pressure they experience to stay on that team. When you find that your goals in life are changing because of what your friends want, then it might be time to reevaluate your circumstances.

7. It can rob you of your self-confidence. Peer pressure can build you up, but it can also tear you down. If you are usually self-confident, it can cause you to second-guess who you are. If you experience a drop in self-esteem, then your confidence can begin to seep away. You might suddenly begin to question who you are as person. If this process continues, then it can even create an adverse impact on your health and wellness.

8. Peer pressure can make you feel ashamed about who you are. People come a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. Some of these family environments are vastly disparate. When everyone else has a lot of money and you don’t (or the opposite), then this issue can become a peer pressure problem. You should not feel ashamed about who you are, where you’re from, or how much money your parents make. Some people can spend extravagantly while others must work hard each month just to make their rent payment. This difference does not make you a lesser person, but peer pressure can make it seem that way. In extreme situations, this feeling can even distance people from their family and other friends who mean well.

9. It can even become a life-threatening situation. The impact of peer pressure can be so severe on people, including adults, that it begins to feel unnatural being in your own skin. When there is distance from family and long-time friends, then emotions like anxiety, fear, and desperation can begin to form. When this disadvantage is severe enough, it can lead to problems with self-harm, suicidal ideation, or even the engagement of a suicide attempt. We cannot avoid peer pressure 100% of the time, but we can know who we are and how to respond to situations that make us feel uncomfortable.

These peer pressure pros and cons are ultimately about the choices you make. It is up to you to find a group of friends who accept you as you are. Friendships should work on building you up instead of tearing you down. If you are struggling right now with your friends or you have convinced yourself that fitting in is what you must do, then it is essential to remember that you are just as important as anyone else on this planet.

You can always call 1-800-RUNAWAY to speak with a counselor about the peer pressure, stress, and other problems you’re facing with this issue too. This line is open 24/7.

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Yes, grade inflation is a thing. But it’s not the real problem

  • Seth Czarnecki

A young woman walks in front of a whiteboard with math problems. (Getty)

The most humiliating experience of my teaching career occurred during my first year on the job. A parent, upset about her son receiving a B- on an essay, requested a meeting with the principal and me. During the meeting, I, a nervous 23-year-old, was asked to explain how the rubric and my comments “added up” to an 82 and whether I thought the principal, who was sitting feet away, would grade the essay the same way. I stumbled, stammered and sweated through the entire meeting.

I would like to say this type of interaction is rare; however, the frequency with which parents and students try to negotiate grades has increased since I started teaching 14 years ago. Instead of encouraging the hard work of learning, traditional grading practices promote behaviors that are antithetical to the pull-yourself-up-by-your bootstraps ethos we’re told is the bedrock of our society. Grade grubbing, cheating and pressure from parents are hardly means to a meritocratic end, and yet, a system that positions grades as currency inevitably makes earning points the focus of school.

As the pressure on teachers to give higher grades grows, so, too, do grade point averages. For more than 50 years , administrators, school officials, policy makers and my fellow teachers have wrung their hands about grade inflation. The phrase was first coined in the 1970s by Harvard sociologist David Riesman, and since then classroom grades and GPAs have gone up and up and up . In recent years, the problem has become so extreme that some colleges have reintroduced SAT scores because grades are no longer a reliable indicator of student success.

Some see the death of meritocracy in grade inflation trends . Others see it as an extension of the cultural rot set on by woke parents demanding participation trophies for their 5-year-old T-ballers. If only we could get back to the good ol’ days when As were given only to those who deserved them, they wonder.

Grade inflation alarmists tend to ignore the history of grades and their efficacy. Contrary to conventional wisdom, there is no natural link between grades and learning. In fact, grades as we understand them today with the spectrum of letters between A through F (a moment of silence, please, for the letter E, which was dropped because an F more clearly communicated a student’s failure ), were created to facilitate communication between institutions and employers rather than to promote learning or motivate students. There is almost no research that suggests grades are necessary for students to learn. There is, however, research that illustrates the negative impact of grades on student motivation , behavior , mental health and the quality of a student’s thinking .

Perhaps most insidious is the way grades distract parents, teachers and administrators from deeper problems of educational achievement. Here, critics of grade inflation and I agree. Though grades have gone up consistently over time, reading and math scores hit an all-time low among 13-year olds while SAT and ACT scores have also dropped precipitously . The answer, however, isn’t to look to some fictitious past when increased rigor , punitive consequences for late work and more B-pluses created a golden age in American education. There is no evidence these practices ever improved student outcomes. They certainly won’t benefit the current generation of teenagers, which is in the midst of a mental health crisis and reports being disengaged and unenthusiastic about school .

Contrary to conventional wisdom, there is no natural link between grades and learning.

So where do we go from here? I think about the problem of grades a lot like I think about our reliance on fossil fuels: Both are so entrenched in our lives that it’s hard to see a realistic way out. And yet we must. The path ahead isn’t to rebrand grades the same way we have “clean coal” — as if it’s something that actually exists. Instead, we need to end our reliance on traditional grades and create new systems based on what we know is true about learning and motivation.

One such system could be the mastery- or proficiency-based approach to assessment, which has gained traction in educational settings as varied as urban New York City and rural Vermont. In the mastery system, students work at their own pace to meet objective content or skills-based standards and are assessed based on the level of proficiency they reach by the end of each unit. For instance, rather than receiving a C on an essay about the Civil War, a teacher’s assessment is descriptive, “Faye is proficient at asking historical inquiry questions and is approaching proficiency in using evidence to back up claims”. Though the ways individual schools, districts and states implement mastery-based assessment may vary, the goals are the same — to do away with arbitrary letter grades (as well as the bad behavior they inspire) and direct the attention of all stakeholders on student progress.

If we must hold onto traditional letter grades in the short term, then individual teachers and departments would do well to use grades to promote the habits of mind that make learning more likely, such as hard work, effort, risk-taking, reflection and, yes, participation. Grading systems like labor-based grading, which I and others (see here and here ) have written about elsewhere, seek to place value on the work of learning. There is also promising research supporting the use of self- and peer assessment. These approaches may have positive outcomes within a grade-granting system, but they are only half measures. We shouldn’t delude ourselves; grades will always take the oxygen out of the room if we give them a place at the table.

Educators know that the same pedagogical conversations happen year after year with little change to show for them. The discussion about grade inflation is no different, and we need to move beyond it. If we’re brave enough, we’ll see traditional grades for what they are — a distraction — and replace them with systems that redirect parent, teacher and student focus where it always should have been: on learning.

Follow Cognoscenti on Facebook and Instagram .

  • To help new students adapt, some colleges are eliminating grades
  • Rich Barlow: Higher ed got it wrong — the SAT still matters
  • Marisa MilaneseGwen Kordonowy: Why we stopped grading our students on their writing

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Seth Czarnecki Cognoscenti contributor Seth Czarnecki is an educator in Central Massachusetts.

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Guest Essay

What Sentencing Could Look Like if Trump Is Found Guilty

A black-and-white photo of Donald Trump, standing behind a metal barricade.

By Norman L. Eisen

Mr. Eisen is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

For all the attention to and debate over the unfolding trial of Donald Trump in Manhattan, there has been surprisingly little of it paid to a key element: its possible outcome and, specifically, the prospect that a former and potentially future president could be sentenced to prison time.

The case — brought by Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, against Mr. Trump — represents the first time in our nation’s history that a former president is a defendant in a criminal trial. As such, it has generated lots of debate about the case’s legal strength and integrity, as well as its potential impact on Mr. Trump’s efforts to win back the White House.

A review of thousands of cases in New York that charged the same felony suggests something striking: If Mr. Trump is found guilty, incarceration is an actual possibility. It’s not certain, of course, but it is plausible.

Jury selection has begun, and it’s not too soon to talk about what the possibility of a sentence, including a prison sentence, would look like for Mr. Trump, for the election and for the country — including what would happen if he is re-elected.

The case focuses on alleged interference in the 2016 election, which consisted of a hush-money payment Michael Cohen, the former president’s fixer at the time, made in 2016 to a porn star, Stormy Daniels, who said she had an affair with Mr. Trump. Mr. Bragg is arguing that the cover-up cheated voters of the chance to fully assess Mr. Trump’s candidacy.

This may be the first criminal trial of a former president in American history, but if convicted, Mr. Trump’s fate is likely to be determined by the same core factors that guide the sentencing of every criminal defendant in New York State Court.

Comparable cases. The first factor is the base line against which judges measure all sentences: how other defendants have been treated for similar offenses. My research encompassed almost 10,000 cases of felony falsifying business records that have been prosecuted across the state of New York since 2015. Over a similar period, the Manhattan D.A. has charged over 400 of these cases . In roughly the first year of Mr. Bragg’s tenure, his team alone filed 166 felony counts for falsifying business records against 34 people or companies.

Contrary to claims that there will be no sentence of incarceration for falsifying business records, when a felony conviction involves serious misconduct, defendants can be sentenced to some prison time. My analysis of the most recent data indicates that approximately one in 10 cases in which the most serious charge at arraignment is falsifying business records in the first degree and in which the court ultimately imposes a sentence, results in a term of imprisonment.

To be clear, these cases generally differ from Mr. Trump’s case in one important respect: They typically involve additional charges besides just falsifying records. That clearly complicates what we might expect if Mr. Trump is convicted.

Nevertheless, there are many previous cases involving falsifying business records along with other charges where the conduct was less serious than is alleged against Mr. Trump and prison time was imposed. For instance, Richard Luthmann was accused of attempting to deceive voters — in his case, impersonating New York political figures on social media in an attempt to influence campaigns. He pleaded guilty to three counts of falsifying business records in the first degree (as well as to other charges). He received a sentence of incarceration on the felony falsification counts (although the sentence was not solely attributable to the plea).

A defendant in another case was accused of stealing in excess of $50,000 from her employer and, like in this case, falsifying one or more invoices as part of the scheme. She was indicted on a single grand larceny charge and ultimately pleaded guilty to one felony count of business record falsification for a false invoice of just under $10,000. She received 364 days in prison.

To be sure, for a typical first-time offender charged only with run-of-the-mill business record falsification, a prison sentence would be unlikely. On the other hand, Mr. Trump is being prosecuted for 34 counts of conduct that might have changed the course of American history.

Seriousness of the crime. Mr. Bragg alleges that Mr. Trump concealed critical information from voters (paying hush money to suppress an extramarital relationship) that could have harmed his campaign, particularly if it came to light after the revelation of another scandal — the “Access Hollywood” tape . If proved, that could be seen not just as unfortunate personal judgment but also, as Justice Juan Merchan has described it, an attempt “to unlawfully influence the 2016 presidential election.”

History and character. To date, Mr. Trump has been unrepentant about the events alleged in this case. There is every reason to believe that will not change even if he is convicted, and lack of remorse is a negative at sentencing. Justice Merchan’s evaluation of Mr. Trump’s history and character may also be informed by the other judgments against him, including Justice Arthur Engoron’s ruling that Mr. Trump engaged in repeated and persistent business fraud, a jury finding that he sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll and a related defamation verdict by a second jury.

Justice Merchan may also weigh the fact that Mr. Trump has been repeatedly held in contempt , warned , fined and gagged by state and federal judges. That includes for statements he made that exposed witnesses, individuals in the judicial system and their families to danger. More recently, Mr. Trump made personal attacks on Justice Merchan’s daughter, resulting in an extension of the gag order in the case. He now stands accused of violating it again by commenting on witnesses.

What this all suggests is that a term of imprisonment for Mr. Trump, while far from certain for a former president, is not off the table. If he receives a sentence of incarceration, perhaps the likeliest term is six months, although he could face up to four years, particularly if Mr. Trump chooses to testify, as he said he intends to do , and the judge believes he lied on the stand . Probation is also available, as are more flexible approaches like a sentence of spending every weekend in jail for a year.

We will probably know what the judge will do within 30 to 60 days of the end of the trial, which could run into mid-June. If there is a conviction, that would mean a late summer or early fall sentencing.

Justice Merchan would have to wrestle in the middle of an election year with the potential impact of sentencing a former president and current candidate.

If Mr. Trump is sentenced to a period of incarceration, the reaction of the American public will probably be as polarized as our divided electorate itself. Yet as some polls suggest — with the caveat that we should always be cautious of polls early in the race posing hypothetical questions — many key swing state voters said they would not vote for a felon.

If Mr. Trump is convicted and then loses the presidential election, he will probably be granted bail, pending an appeal, which will take about a year. That means if any appeals are unsuccessful, he will most likely have to serve any sentence starting sometime next year. He will be sequestered with his Secret Service protection; if it is less than a year, probably in Rikers Island. His protective detail will probably be his main company, since Mr. Trump will surely be isolated from other inmates for his safety.

If Mr. Trump wins the presidential election, he can’t pardon himself because it is a state case. He will be likely to order the Justice Department to challenge his sentence, and department opinions have concluded that a sitting president could not be imprisoned, since that would prevent the president from fulfilling the constitutional duties of the office. The courts have never had to address the question, but they could well agree with the Justice Department.

So if Mr. Trump is convicted and sentenced to a period of incarceration, its ultimate significance is probably this: When the American people go to the polls in November, they will be voting on whether Mr. Trump should be held accountable for his original election interference.

What questions do you have about Trump’s Manhattan criminal trial so far?

Please submit them below. Our trial experts will respond to a selection of readers in a future piece.

Norman L. Eisen investigated the 2016 voter deception allegations as counsel for the first impeachment and trial of Donald Trump and is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

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  1. Peer Pressure Essay for Students and Children

    500+ Words Essay on Peer Pressure. Peer pressure can be both negative and positive. Because if a person is a peer pressuring you for a good cause then it is motivation. Motivation is essential for the growth of a person. While peer pressure for a bad cause will always lead you to a disastrous situation. Therefore it necessary for a person to ...

  2. Essay on Peer Pressure: 100, 200, and 450 Word Samples in English

    Essay on Peer Pressure in 100 Words. 'Peer pressure refers to the influence of your peers. Peer pressure either be of positive or negative types. Positive peer pressure can encourage healthy habits like academic challenges, physical activities, or engaging in positive social activities. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead us ...

  3. Peer Pressure: Positive and Negative Effects Essay

    The effects of peer pressure depend on the nature of the influencing group. A bad group may influence an individual in a wrong way, while a good group may instill in a person positive values. Examples of negative peer influence include making wrong decisions, loss of identity, and development of bad habits, while positive peer influence ...

  4. The good and bad of peer pressure, with Brett Laursen, PhD

    Brett Laursen is a professor of psychology at Florida Atlantic University, where his research focuses on how children and teens interact with their peers and parents. Specifically, he studies how these relationships affect their social lives and academics. Dr. Laursen is a fellow of the American Psychological Association.

  5. Positive Peer Pressure: A Powerful Ally to Change

    Positive Peer Pressure: A Powerful Ally to Change. Webster tells us that a peer is "one of equal standing with another" or "one belonging to the same societal group (that is, based on age ...

  6. Peer Pressure: Definition, Types, Examples, and Ways to Cope

    Peer pressure is the way people of the same social group can influence one another. There may be negative or positive effects of peer pressure. Learn more. ... That way, you're fulfilling both of your needs in a mutually beneficial way. 10 Sources. Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the ...

  7. Peer Pressure: Essay, Types, Factors, Strategies & Solutions

    Types of Peer Pressure. Let's delve into the various types of peer pressure: 1. Direct Peer Pressure. Direct peer pressure involves explicit attempts by individuals to influence others to conform to specific behaviors, choices, or actions. This can manifest through direct persuasion, encouragement, or even coercion.

  8. Peer Pressure Causes and Resistance

    Peer Pressure Causes and Resistance Essay. Peer pressure is an important problem for teenagers. The primary reason behind it is the need to belong. At a particular age, a teenager starts to feel a need to figure out their identities and belong to a particular group. Often, group members are required to behave in a certain way.

  9. Peer Pressure Essay Ideas

    A good way to reach out to students for peer pressure essays is to throw out some general concepts for students to work on and analyze. Peer pressure can be a positive influence. Explain how.

  10. 84 Peer Pressure Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    👍 Good Essay Topics on Peer Pressure; Questions About Peer Pressure; 🏆 Best Peer Pressure Topic Ideas & Essay Examples. Peer Pressure: Positive and Negative Effects. When I was in high school, I happened to be assigned to a discussion group that was comprised of people who valued the process of studying a lot. The influence of the group ...

  11. Positive Peer Pressure: a Friend Within Friends

    Positive peer pressure can lead to the adoption of beneficial habits, replacing detrimental ones and promoting a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Lastly, friends and peer pressure can expose individuals to new experiences and help them discover their true interests and identity. While the pressure to conform can be daunting, it can also push ...

  12. Peer Pressure and Its Positive Effects: Essay Example

    Positive Effects of Peer Pressure: Essay Introduction. Peer pressure can have a significant impact on almost every aspect of a teenager's life. However, while peer pressure is commonly viewed as a negative phenomenon, it can also have many positive aspects. Peer pressure has the potential to help teens grow as individuals and adopt good habits.

  13. Peer pressure Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

    Free essay examples about Peer pressure ️ Proficient writing team ️ High-quality of every essay ️ Largest database of free samples on PapersOwl. ... Peer pressure can be beneficial because it can encourage better behaviors, teens can develop good mentality, and teens can develop physically as well. First of all, pressuring someone to help ...

  14. Peer Pressure In Young Adults: Essay Example, 2652 words

    Indirect peer pressure is when someone sees and hears what their friends are doing and gets influenced by it. People from all age groups face peer pressure in some form or the other. Usually, school going children demand things from their parents, which their friends own. They want to participate in activities which their friends do.

  15. IELTS Essay: Peer Pressure

    Analysis. 1. Peer pressure refers to the influence young individuals experience within the same age group, affecting their behaviors. 2. This essay will critically evaluate the drawbacks and benefits of peer pressure on young people. Paraphrase the overall essay topic. Write a clear opinion.

  16. The Effects of Peer Pressure on Students, Essay Example

    Some activities driven by peer pressure can help students get involved. Activities and functions can be great for the social development of a student. Peer pressure, even when applied outside of one's comfort zone, can ultimately be beneficial. Peer pressure can also help individuals make the right choices.

  17. The Impact of Peer Pressure on Students' Academic Performance

    Studies show that the influence of peer groups among students can boost their anxiety especially pertaining to their academic performance. The relationship within the group with its peers are co-related with each other, hence the direction of this particular relationship should be monitored were these relationships should go considering all possible factors correlated within the groups outcome.

  18. Peer pressure is good for self-development.

    Conclusion. Peer pressure has its pros and its cons, but on the whole, it may help a person develop both emotionally and socially. Positive peer pressure may have negative effects, but the outcome is often a positive one. On the other hand, if a person is able to experience negative peer pressure and fight it, then it may have a dramatic effect ...

  19. Peer Pressure (for Teens)

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  20. Essay on Peer Pressure for Students in English [500+ Words]

    Essay on Peer Pressure: ... Positive peer pressure is beneficial and healthy, but it is the negative side of it, that can prove to be harmful. School children and teenagers are more prone to peer pressure. This is the age where they indulge themselves in alcohol, smoking, drugs, ragging, beating up others, stealing and what not! ...

  21. Peer Pressure and Young People Essay

    Comments. This peer pressure and young people essay would score highly for IELTS. Regarding task response, it fully answers the question, discussing both the pros and cons of peer pressure and setting out a clear opinion on the topic - in this case that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.Ideas are clearly stated and extended. Coherence and cohesion is very good, with ideas sequenced ...

  22. 15 Pros and Cons of Peer Pressure

    List of the Pros of Peer Pressure. 1. It can be a way to help you learn some positive habits. When you begin to follow a group of friends, then you have a chance to see all of their traits. If you only focus on the negative choices they make, that will be the pressure that you feel to conform.

  23. Yes, grade inflation is a thing. But it's not the real problem

    The most humiliating experience of my teaching career occurred during my first year on the job. A parent, upset about her son receiving a B- on an essay, requested a meeting with the principal and me.

  24. What Sentencing Could Look Like if Trump Is Found Guilty

    Prison time is a possibility. It's uncertain, of course, but plausible.