Positive Vs. Negative Peer Pressure: And how we can make a difference
By Jacob Rowley
Peer pressure is a double-edged sword. We see that the word ‘peer pressure’ carries a negative connotation with it, but it can be used for the good as well. Peer pressure is the act of an individual or group influencing your decisions.
When engulfed in negativity, especially within a negative group, we often find ourselves shifting our actions to align with their mood, compromising our own values and well-being in the process. We should avoid people that tear us down and influence us to make decisions that go against our beliefs and standards. In doing so, we can remove the negative emotion inflicted by others. This action could raise one’s overall self-esteem and encourage healthy relationships.
On the other side of the spectrum, positive peer pressure can be a great thing. When you’re surrounded by uplifting and kind people, it will boost your morale and self-esteem. When we share positive peer pressure, we encourage others to make good decisions and pressure them to be a better version of themselves.
I recently heard stories from an anonymous Juab High School student. They told me of the cruel, harsh words and actions done to them. It broke my heart to hear such stories from someone I personally know. The bullying really hurt his self-esteem and changed the way he looked at himself. When I heard these stories, it sparked thoughts in my head about how we (as a school) can prevent these outrageous, unnecessary actions.
After racking my mind about how we could accomplish this goal, I came up with a solution. The solution is becoming that positive peer pressure. If only one person stood up for this person, his stories would be much more joyous. We can be that one person. We can stand up and start the chain reaction in our own school. Refrain from spreading the negativity and be an advocate for good. Everyone deserves to be happy, so let us come together and reach out to those in need of a friend. Also, let us pressure and influence our friends to be better versions of themselves.