Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important, while others feel it has distinct disadvantages.
Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages?
Nowadays, youngsters are often influenced by their peer groups, some say that it is important and offers several benefits, while others enumerate detriments, making it imperative to assess whether the former is outstripped by the latter.
To begin with, individuals are often influenced by their peers and at times try to follow their footsteps. This practice offers umpteen advantages: one gets a reality check and they step out of their own dreamy world. In a recent published article by John Bravo, professor at University Of Melbourne, states that the influence of acquaintances works like a wonder for those procrastinating at their work at school, office, home.
Furthermore, it boosts confidence and forces one to put more effort, resulting in better performance. In Bluebells International School, Delhi, the pupils scoring less in the formal institution are made to sit with the ones excelling: this practice has had a favorable impact on the former; their scores start to climb from very next term exams.
On the contrary, some believe this practice carries numerous drawbacks as one tends to follow wrong precedents. A recent study, conducted by the government of South Africa, shows that more than 45% of college students start to drink alcohol, smoke weed as they are influenced by their seniors and this habit stays with them life long. Additionally, this creates stress and anxiety among young individuals, hampering their mental and physical well being. More than 65% of young people suffer from stress and headache in their school due to this phenomenon.
In conclusion, peer pressure is considered to be fruitful; disadvantages of this engagement fail to eclipse rewards fetched by such influence even though it is necessary to counsel the youth to ensure that they do not go astray.
