Listen to this articlePeer pressure or influence is a common occurrence in university life. As a student, you are surrounded by people from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Naturally, their opinions, behaviors, and attitudes can influence your life in one way or another. While peer influence can be positive, it can also have negative consequences. In this article, we will provide tips and strategies on how to deal with negative peer pressure or influence in the university. 
Understand the Nature of Peer Pressure or Influence
Peer pressure or influence is a phenomenon that occurs when the opinions, behaviors, or attitudes of your peers influence your life. It can be positive or negative. Positive peer influence can help you improve your academic performance, develop social skills, and build self-confidence. Negative peer influence, on the other hand, can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as drug use, excessive drinking, or reckless behavior.
To deal with peer pressure or influence effectively, you need to understand its nature. Here are a few tips to help you out:
Set Clear Boundaries
One of the most effective ways to deal with peer pressure or influence is to set clear boundaries. This involves establishing your own values, beliefs, and goals. Let your friends know these principles about you. For example, if you do not drink alcohol or use drugs, make your stand clear to your peers. Similarly, if you are busy with academic work, don’t give in when they convince you to engage in frivolous activities. Setting clear boundaries can help you focus on your goals and avoid negative consequences.
Surround Yourself With Like-Minded Peers
Another effective strategy for dealing with peer pressure or influence is to find like-minded peers. Seek out friends who share your values, beliefs, and goals. Only like-minded peers can create a supportive environment that will help you excel. Get people who will support you and encourage you to reach your goals.
Be Assertive
Assertiveness is an important skill for dealing with peer pressure or influence. It involves expressing your opinions and standing up for your beliefs in a respectful and confident manner. When you face peer pressure, assertiveness can help you say no. It also helps you maintain your boundaries without damaging your relationships with your peers.
To become assertive, you need to be clear and direct in your communication. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. Stay calm and composed in the face of pressure. For example, instead of saying “You’re pressuring me to drink alcohol,” you could say “I don’t feel comfortable drinking alcohol, so I’m going to pass.” By using “I” statements, you are taking ownership of your feelings and decisions. This makes it easier for your peers to understand and respect your boundaries.
Know What You Want
Many students are influenced by their peers because they do not know what they want. They follow the crowd and do not have a clear purpose. If you know what you want, you have a purpose. Your peers cannot destruct your plans.
Be Mindful of Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for connecting with others, but it can also be a source of negative peer influence. People often fill social media platforms with unrealistic images, lifestyles, and messages. These can make many people feel inadequate or pressured to conform to certain standards.
To avoid the negative effects of social media, be mindful of your usage. Limit your social media use, unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about yourself, or use social media in a positive and constructive way.
Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health
Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential in dealing with peer pressure or influence. When you are physically and mentally healthy, you are better equipped to handle stress, make good decisions, and resist negative peer influence.
Remember, the university is a community of diverse cultures and personalities. Be yourself and always seek to be a better version of yourself. Don’t be misled by peer pressure or influence. Nothing comes easy, so don’t be fooled by shortcuts or easier routes that can jeopardize your future.
