Somehow, I hope we can form a system or platform where these matters of peer pressure can be addressed, especially on campuses. Many students went to school and came back unrecognised. Why? Peer pressure played a role. I do say the school environment is more than an educational ground or atmosphere, it's a breeding ground for all kinds of characters and virtues.
It shapes an individual beyond what we can think of. I still consider how some of my mates in high school became what they are today because they could not stand tall in the face of peer pressure. The sickening thing about peer pressure is that, it's like this parasite that creeps in undetected till it latches and drains you of your values, morals and every virtue you hold. With peer pressure, one's future is at stake.
So, I've been biased so far in this discourse about peer pressure. The orientation we've had has made peer pressure look like a negative thing alone. No, it's also in the positive. That friend who dragged you to lectures, ensured you read your books and did your assignments, made sure you went to fellowship, and the rest, those are peer pressures applied, but in a positive way. Hence, it's not always a bad thing as we see it to be.
However, pertaining to this prompt, it's clear on the point of view concerning peer pressure and I'm addressing it as such. I've met peer pressure in my journey through school. While I have tried to maintain a hardcore attitude towards it, there were times I fell. Like the time I was encouraged by my friend's weakness towards some academic activities at one point. He didn't force me, and it wasn't in his attitude I must mention, but I was kind of influenced.
Beyond that and other few experiences, I've always done my best to maintain an attitude against peer pressure. One of my mantras is that “I shouldn't be coerced into doing something. It would be better if I lead myself into it than let another do that.” For me, it's a shame to let someone beat my will and make me do something I wouldn't want to. It would be better if I drag myself into the wrong thing.
It's one reason I stood against peer pressure. The words come like a whisper and I find the strength to stand my ground. More than just that, I try to stay away, as much as possible from peers who showed the character of flamboyancy, since I knew I wasn't cut out for that and it would be a matter of time before they begin to influence me.
My friends have been those of like minds. This saves me the stress of even dealing with the pressures. But should they come, I do try to remember my values and where I come from. Would my parents be proud of this? Would I be proud of myself in the future? What's the point and reward in faking it? Can I manage the disappointment and disgrace? With all of these questions and more, peer pressure is managed from within me even before the superficial actions.
Images are mine.