21. Peer Pressure

Master's Message children's class discussion topic of the week.

What is Peer Pressure?

Peer pressure is when a group of peers (such as friends or classmates at school) tries to pressure you into doing something that you don't want to do, because it is wrong or dangerous. It is usually something that is not good for you, such as smoking, vaping, drinking alcohol, bullying another child, not playing with another child, or stealing.

Understanding Peer Pressure

There will often be one person in the group who starts off the peer pressure and it spreads to the other kids in the group. Soon there are a few kids or the whole group putting pressure on you to do something that you don't want to do. If you don't do it, then the group will make fun of you and threaten to kick you out of the group.

Realise that it all starts with one kid, a 'bad apple', who is very manipulative, quite evil, and able to control the weaker minded kids in the group. They usually do this because they have a low feeling of self-worth, called low self-esteem, meaning that deep down they don't like who they are. They need the admiration and praise of their friends to feel better about themselves. They also like the feeling of being able to control other people as it makes them feel important.

If you give in to their pressure, then it is likely that you have low self-confidence and are a follower rather than a leader. If you do not give in to their peer pressure, then you have demonstrated that you are a stronger minded person than they are and a true leader.

Possibly they will kick you out of their ‘group’ or won’t be your friend anymore. Well, that is probably a good thing, as these are not true friends; they are using you. Do you really want to hang around with people like that? You would be better off not having them as friends and making new friends. Even if you don't have friends for a while in-between, you ae still better off. Confident people are happy in their own company. If you stay with the group and they don't change their behavior, they will continue to control you, use you, and drag you down to their low level.

Setting an example for others

As a martial artist we have the confidence to know what we want out of life and what is right and wrong.

We are Self Confident.

We do not need to be controlled by peer pressure.

We do not need to be part of an unhealthy group or ‘gang’ to feel wanted or cool.

We control our own lives and destiny.

Whether we are with people or on our own, we are happy either way.

Black Belts are Leaders not Followers!

Conclusion: 

If you are being pressured into doing something that makes you uncomfortable stop and think about why it is making you uneasy, is it illegal, unhealthy, or is it going to hurt or endanger your or someone else. Peer pressure can be serious and have consequences that can affect you for the rest of your life. You could be suspended from school, or the Police could become involved if it is very serious. Confidence will help you deal with these situations. Cobra Martial Arts training helps you develop that confidence!

Cobra Martial Arts & Fitness Centres - Personal Development Program - 1991.