How to talk to kids about peer pressure
To help your child see your concerns about potentially negative peer pressure, it’s important to talk to them. Of course, school-age kids and teens have different perspectives, so there are different ways to have the conversation.
Talking to school-age children:
Share your own experiences, including the ways that you deal (or dealt) with outside pressures in your own life, and then ask your child to share theirs.
“Be direct about your own expectations for behavior so that your child knows what isn’t acceptable,” says Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life licensed therapist Jody Baumstein, LCSW.
Talking to teens:
Communicate the impact certain choices could have on your child’s life, not yours. Licensed therapist Kathleen Hill, LPC, says, “Talk about if your teen’s behaviors align with their long-term goals. For example, will cheating on a test with their friend affect their chances of getting into the college of their dreams?”
Share the impact your child’s behavior has on you. If you are upset at the fact that your child snuck into a movie with their friends, let them know it disappointed you.
Work to create an environment where your child knows you are available and able to talk whenever they might be feeling pressure. Keep an open mind, listen without judging and help your child form their own opinions regarding what’s best for them.
Let your child decide for themself. It’s difficult when you feel you know the “right” answer, but it’s more important to let your child figure it out (with your support) if they’re willing and it’s safe to do so.