4. BRIEF BACKROUND
Peer pressure is the term used to describe the pressure that one's social circle or
peers put on them to adopt particular attitudes, habits, or actions. It is a strong force
that has the ability to dramatically affect how someone makes decisions. Individuals
may feel pushed by peer pressure to comply to the expectations of the group or take
on activities that may be against their own personal ideas, values, or better judgment.
It may influence choices made in a variety of areas of life, including relationships,
academics, lifestyle, and even harmful action. Peer pressure has an especially strong
impact on adolescents and young adults as they struggle with issues of identity
building and social acceptance.
Both good and bad effects can result from peer pressure's influence on decision-
making. Positive peer pressure can encourage people to practice healthy habits,
pursue personal development, or perform well in school. Peer pressure that is harmful
can, however, result in undesirable effects including substance misuse, bullying, risky
sexual behavior, or engagement in illicit activities.
5. OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of peer
pressure on decision-making processes among Grade 10 students
studying Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE). The
research aims to explore the extent to which peer pressure
affects the decision-making abilities and choices of students in
their academic pursuits and overall well-being. By examining this
phenomenon, the study seeks to provide insights into the
potential impact of peer pressure on the educational experiences
of STE students, with the ultimate goal of identifying strategies to
mitigate any negative effects and promote healthy decision-
making.
6. RELEVANCE
This study will be great benefit to the following:
• Students - The results will provide the students some knowledge about the impact
of peer pressure. It will give the students information about this certain topic.
• Parents - Parents can provide guidance and support to their children when it comes
to dealing with peer pressure.
• Teachers - With the help of provided, teacher can Promote positive peer pressure
outcomes in your classroom. Also Provide opportunities for students to practice their
communication skills to manage negative peer pressure situations.
• Community - This knowledge can help educators, parents, and community members
develop strategies to support positive decision making and healthy peer relationships.
• Future Research - This study will serve as their basis on study they will be
conducting
8. A. CAUSES OF PEER PRESSURE
A desire to fit in - People may feel pressure to conform so they fit
in or are accepted, or so they don't feel awkward or
uncomfortable.
To avoid rejection and gain social acceptance - Teens may modify
their speech, dress, behavior, choices, and activities in order to
become more similar to their peers.
Personal Confusion or anxiety - Peers may exert extreme
pressure to participate in risky behavior without knowing that a
teen with depression or anxiety may desperately want to fit in
9. B. IMPACTS OF PEER PRESSURE
It can increase or decrease self confidence - Children and
teens find themselves overly dependent on their peers
because they begin to develop an issue with self-
confidence.
Distancing from family and friends - Peers may encourage
to do things that you dont normally do.
A sense of belonging and support - Feeling accepted,
appreciated, and understood in our relationships with
individuals and groups of people.
10. C. BENEFITS OF PEER PRESSURE
Introduction to positive hobbies - when someone’s
peers influence them to do something positive or
growth building.
Reinforcement of positive Habits - Having peers who
inspire you to learn new things that would help you in
the future
Helps you to abandon negative habits - by replacing
new positive habits
12. In conclusion, the impact of peer pressure on
decision making among grade 10 STE students
is a significant and complex phenomenon. Peer
pressure refers to the influence exerted by
peers or classmates on an individual's
thoughts, behaviors, and choices. It can be
both positive and negative, depending on the
circumstances and the nature of the decisions
involved.
13. Firstly, peer pressure can have positive effects on
decision making. It can encourage students to
engage in productive academic behaviors, such as
studying harder, participating actively in class, and
seeking academic assistance when needed.
However, peer pressure can also have negative
impacts on decision making. This can lead to a loss
of individuality and critical thinking skills, as
students may make decisions solely to fit in or gain
social acceptance.
14. Moreover, the influence of peer pressure can
sometimes result in risky or detrimental
decision making. Students may succumb to
peer pressure to engage in unhealthy or
unethical behaviors, such as cheating,
skipping classes, or taking shortcuts in their
academic pursuits. This can negatively impact
their learning outcomes, personal growth.
15. To mitigate the negative effects of peer pressure on
decision making, it is crucial for grade 10 STE students
to develop strong critical thinking and decision-making
skills. Educators, and parents should emphasize the
importance of individuality, personal values, and
informed choices. By fostering an environment that
encourages open-mindedness, respectful discussion,
and independent thinking, students can better evaluate
the influence of peer pressure and make decisions that
align with their own aspirations and principles.
16. References
BROWN, B. B., & LARSON, J. (2009). Peer relationships in
adolescence. Handbook of adolescent psychology,
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/peer-pressure.
https://www.mentalhelp.net/relationships/teens-and-peer/
https://evolvetreatment.com/blog/peer-pressure-teen-depression-
anxiety/
https://paradigmtreatment.com/child-experiencing-positive-
negative-peer-pressure/
https://sanjeevdatta.com/effects-of-peer-pressure/
