Peer pressure can be resisted with the help of parents. Sometimes as parents, we tend to pay less attention to how we relate with our kids. It’s important we have regular conversations with our children ask them about their day, listen to them, answer questions or help them solve a problem. This not only build a connection between you and your child but according to studies, children in good relationship with their parents are often able to resist peer pressure easier.
Communicating with your child helps you to know your child’s friend, favorite activities, where your child goes to and the time he will be home.
In a friendly manner, teach your child about qualities he should look out for in a friend, qualities that are important to him and those you feel are important. You can do this by simply giving examples of a good friend and a not-so-good friend. This will encourage your child to choose friends carefully.
Allow your child to pursue his interests in extra curricular activities, joining a club or attending workshops that can boost self-esteem and encourage healthy friendships.
Talk to your child about smoking, drinking and drugs. Start from when your child is young to emphasize on the importance of making healthy choices. Many experts recommend discussing the dangers of destructive decisions with children before the age of 10. Talk about smoking, alcohol and drug use—on TV, in movies, online, or in public, and the possible consequences.
Encourage your child to always think first, If a friend asks her to do something which makes her feel uncomfortable. When she takes few seconds to think she would be able to go with her instinct.
Teach your child how to say no and mean it. This will make it easier for your child to resistance or overcome peer pressure. A child can casually reinforce his position with an excuse. For example: “No thank you. I’m training for next week’s big game.” Or, “I can’t even stand the sight of cigarettes—my uncle is fighting lung cancer.”
It’s easier to resist peer pressure with the support of friends, so encourage your child to let his friends know he’s there for them and is counting on them to have his back. Encourage him to be a positive influence and a leader rather than a follower whenever possible.