Yesterday, while I was teaching, a boy did something that irritated me and I wanted to beat the hell out of the boy but I had to restrict myself. Although every job has its challenges, and this is part of teaching, it was still frustrating. If parents aren't complaining, students are misbehaving. Normally, I wouldn't have been so upset, but this boy hadn't acted this way before. It seemed like he was influenced by his friends. There was another scenario where a female student removed her shirt and stoned her teacher with it. It wasn't funny at all. The action was taken on the girl immediately as the school authority questioned and found the girl guilty. She received her punishment of a week's suspension.
This action reminded me of my secondary school days. Peer pressure was a topic covered in two of my subjects, and my teachers emphasized its importance.
What is a Peer Group?
According to Wikipedia, a peer group is a social group of people with similar interests, age, background, or social status. Members of this group can influence each other's beliefs and behaviour.
Peer group influence means being encouraged or persuaded by one's friends to act in a certain way.
My Experience with Peer Pressure
In secondary school, we were taught that peer pressure often involves getting involved with a bad crowd and doing things you didn't plan to do. In my opinion, peer pressure can be good or bad, depending on who your friends are. You can decide not to follow bad behaviour if you recognize it and step away before it's too late. I have had friends who have influenced me in a positive way and also in a negative way but all I have to do is choose which one I want to embrace.
The Power of Peer Influence
I believe nothing is inherently good or bad; it depends on how we use it. Many people need "peer influence" – someone who encourages or mentors them. Peer pressure is good when you choose your friends wisely. As the saying goes, "Show me your friends, and I can tell who you are." The people you spend time with will influence you, either positively or negatively. The people you move it can determine how far you go in life. Your success is determined by the people around you. You have to choose your company right. Choosing the right people is not only important but also essential for our well-being and dreams come through.
To achieve results, you need pressure, but it should come from peers or mentors who motivate you. Stay around people who challenge you positively. Choose friends who will have a good influence on you. Remember, your friends don't have to be your age. Learn from experienced people and find a mentor.
Confronting the Boy
I confronted the boy and talked to him about his behaviour. He apologized, and I felt relieved. I had to advise him to move away from people who have little or no benefits to his life and academics
Peer pressure can shape our actions and decisions. It's important to choose friends who influence us positively and to be aware of how peer pressure affects us.