How to Help Teens With Peer Pressure

The teenage years are tumultuous and exhilarating. Young adults begin to establish their identity and exert independence. Peer pressure is a normal part of the teenage experience. Though all peer pressure isn't bad, some of it can have a negative affect on your teenager's choices. Follow these steps to help your teenager make good decisions and cope with peer pressure.

Instructions

1. Help your teen build self-esteem. Instill values in him that support a healthy self-image and a strong sense of identity. Get him involved in activities that support esteem building. Your teen is less likely to be easily influenced if he has self-esteem. Providing your teenager with a strong foundation helps him cope with peer pressure.

2. Teach your teen about peer pressure. Tell her what to expect from her classmates and friends. Explain the difference between positive and negative peer pressure. If your teenager knows what peer pressure looks and feels like, then she'll be better prepared to deal with it when it happens.

3. Keep the lines of communication open. Let your teen know that he can come to you about his problems. Actively listen to him. If your teen feels comfortable discussing peer pressure with you, then you'll be able to help him cope with it more efficiently.

4. Guide your teenager gently. Teens are at an age where independence and privacy become important values. Give your teenager room to make choices and figure some things out on her own. Refrain from being overly critical and judgmental.

5. Trust your teen. If you become too overbearing, then your teen will rebel. Allow her to make mistakes and clean up her own messes, within reason. You cannot protect her from life.